Adolph Gottlieb's "Imaginary Landscapes," initiated in 1951, signify a major evolution in his artistic progression, particularly marking a departure from the Pictograph series that had previously defined his work. The first piece in this series, The Frozen Sounds, indicated Gottlieb's shifting focus towards exploring new dimensions of abstraction. These artworks diverge from the structured grids of the Pictographs, embodying Gottlieb's pursuit of a deeper engagement with abstract expressionism through a novel compositional approach that juxtaposes two distinct horizontal sections on the canvas​ (Adolph & Esther Gottlieb Foundation)​.

In these Imaginary Landscapes, Gottlieb employed a 'pseudo-language' retained from his Pictographs but introduced an innovative element—space—into his compositions. He divided his canvases into two segments: a dynamic, detailed lower register contrasted against a more reductive, contemplative upper one, bypassing the traditional landscape genre to foster a unique abstract expression. This methodology was not just a stylistic choice but a profound inquiry into the essence of visual imagery and its ability to convey emotional truths beyond the constraints of verbal or optical realism​ (Wikipedia)​.

Gottlieb's Imaginary Landscapes can be seen as a response to the limitations he perceived in the "all-over painting" approach that became prevalent among abstract artists of his time. By innovatively splitting the canvas, Gottlieb was not only challenging conventional methods but also expanding the scope of abstract expressionism to include theoretical considerations of space and abstraction. This series underscores his belief in the power of art to evoke an emotional response without relying on narrative structure, thereby engaging viewers in a deeply personal and interpretive experience​ (Wikipedia)​.

Throughout his career, Gottlieb remained committed to exploring the potential of abstraction to express complex human emotions and ideas. The Imaginary Landscapes, alongside his later "Burst" series, illustrate his ongoing experimentation with form, color, and space, reflecting his broader philosophical stance on art and nature. In these works, Gottlieb sought to capture the inherent beauty and brutality of life, creating a dialogue between the artwork and the viewer that transcends conventional narrative and symbolic language​ (Wikipedia)​.