Untitled 1951

Robert Goodnough created this untitled painting with brushstrokes of oil paint and charcoal lines on canvas. The rough texture of the canvas interacts with the fluidity of the paint, creating a dynamic surface. You can see where Goodnough has layered the paint, letting each color interact with the others, while the gestural charcoal outlines add another layer of complexity. The act of painting itself is central here. Goodnough embraces the inherent qualities of the materials to explore the act of creation. The speed and spontaneity of the strokes capture a sense of movement. This echoes a history of abstract expressionist practice, and an engagement with ideas of the 'handmade,' which became particularly resonant in the mid-20th century as manufacturing became increasingly automated. Looking closely, you can appreciate how materials, making, and context together shape the art we experience.