This online viewing room features an exceptional selection of works by Henri Matisse, Ellsworth Kelly, David Hockney, Josef Albers, Sam Gilliam, and Alex Katz. From Matisse's lush trees of the South of France to Hockney's iconic California swimming pools, the works presented here encapsulate the essence of summertime, celebrating its vibrant energy and serene beauty. By exploring themes, colors, and compositional ideas, these artists evoke the contemporary emotions and experiences associated with summer, resonating with the season's delightful ambiance.
Among the works, Henri Matisse's drawing of fig leaves from 1941 exemplifies the lushness and vitality of summer foliage. The yellow hues, of Kelly and Albers offer a minimalist yet profound exploration of color and form, echoing the intensity of the summer sun. Alex Katz's portraits with a straw hat epitomizes the leisurely elegance of summer, capturing a moment of quiet contemplation and timeless beauty. David Hockney's swimming pool lithograph captures the quintessential summer experience with its depiction of a shimmering pool under the California sun, embodying the refreshing and carefree spirit of summer days. Sam Gilliam's abstract painting, with its vibrant yellow and intricate textures, adds an energetic and dynamic dimension to the celebration of summer. Together, these works celebrate the multifaceted essence of summer, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in its visual and emotional delights.