“Pillar of Fire,” created by Morris Louis in 1961, represents a quintessential piece within the Color Field Painting movement. The artwork, measuring 233.7 x 121 cm, employs magna on canvas as its medium. This abstract piece belongs to the “Stripe” series, a hallmark of Louis’s exploration of color and form.
The artwork features a collection of vertical stripes aligned next to each other, each stripe rendered in distinct, vivid colors. The composition is marked by the juxtaposition of deep, earthy tones with bright, warm hues, achieving a harmonious yet dynamic visual effect. The use of magna paint allows for a smooth application, enhancing the intensity and vibrancy of each color stripe. The stripes appear to extend from the top of the canvas towards the bottom, varying slightly in width and hue, thereby creating a rhythm and flow that draws the viewer’s eye throughout the composition. Overall, “Pillar of Fire” exemplifies Louis’s masterful manipulation of color and space, making it a significant contribution to the Color Field Painting movement.
