Untitled 1985

Here's a small untitled painting by Sam Francis, made with oil on paper. Look at the way he lets the paint move, almost like he's not entirely in control, surrendering to the flow of the medium. It’s all about the process. Up close, the texture is crucial. The paint isn't shy; it's thick, almost sculptural in places. Notice how the teal paint meanders across the surface, revealing unexpected depths beneath. The colors mix right there on the paper, creating these incredible nuances. It's a dance of intention and accident, a balance between control and chance. It makes me think of Joan Mitchell, another painter who understood the power of letting go and embracing the unexpected. These aren't just paintings; they're records of an encounter, a dialogue between artist and material.