Midnight Blue 1970

Barnett Newman's "Midnight Blue" (1970) is a prime example of his signature style, Color Field painting. The work consists of a large canvas predominantly painted in a deep, saturated blue. A thin, vertical stripe of a slightly lighter blue separates the canvas, disrupting the vast expanse of color. This minimalist composition invites viewers to contemplate the interplay between color, space, and the act of viewing itself, reflecting Newman's exploration of abstract expressionism. The artwork's presence in the Museum Ludwig, Cologne, provides a chance to experience this iconic piece firsthand.