Untitled 1957

This is an untitled work by Norman Bluhm, who was associated with the second generation of Abstract Expressionists. At first glance, you're struck by the painting's density of color. A mix of greens, reds, oranges, and purples merge and drip downwards creating a sense of movement. The overlapping layers of color give depth, yet the lack of distinct forms or a clear focal point challenges traditional notions of composition. Bluhm's technique rejects the idea of a stable, unified image. Instead, it embraces fluidity and chance. This aligns with post-structuralist thought, which questions fixed meanings. The dripping lines, far from being accidental, destabilize the painting and evoke a sense of the intangible. They invite us to see beyond the surface and question our expectations of what an artwork should represent. The visual disorder invites you to become more attuned to your individual perceptions.