Cloud 9 2002

Elizabeth Murray made ‘Cloud 9’ at an undetermined date with oil on canvas, and what a name! The artwork is packed with shapes and colors that dance and play together, creating a lively, abstract scene that invites the eye to wander. The surface of the painting is built up with layers of color, creating a tactile, almost sculptural effect. Look closer, and you'll see the edges and contours of each form are clearly defined, but within those boundaries, Murray allows for a looser, more expressive application of paint, with visible brushstrokes and variations in tone. It’s like she’s built her own playground. A standout area is the squiggly worm-like form towards the bottom. It anchors the composition and provides a grounding element amidst the more whimsical shapes. Murray’s work is often compared to that of Philip Guston, with both artists sharing a love for bold colors and playful forms, yet maintaining an understanding of painting's history. Like all good art, this piece keeps the conversation going.