Untitled (L. I112) 1990

This untitled splash of pigment, made by Sam Francis, is a real demonstration in how to let loose, but with control! The colors and shapes feel both totally random and perfectly placed. Like a happy accident, or maybe a carefully orchestrated improvisation. The thin paint almost floats on the surface, with puddles of watery colour blending together, creating a feeling of lightness and movement. There's this one thick black stroke that anchors the whole piece, it cuts through the splashy colour, and makes the other colours pop. It almost feels like the black is solid, but it is also see through in places, adding another layer of interest. I love the way he embraces messiness and chance, but always seems to know exactly when to stop. Francis' approach reminds me a bit of Joan Mitchell, who also knew how to make paint sing. For both of them painting is an ongoing conversation of ideas and colours.