Barnett Newman's Onement series, initiated in 1948 with "Onement I," represents a pivotal moment in his career, marking his breakthrough into a style that would define his contribution to Abstract Expressionism and post-painterly abstraction. This series is characterized by the introduction of the "zip," a vertical stripe that Newman used to divide the canvas. This feature not only structured the spatial composition of his paintings but also unified them, creating a field for an immersive color experience. The zip became Newman's signature motif, through which he explored the interplay between the viewer, the canvas, and the surrounding space, aiming to invoke a sense of presence and immediacy (The Art Story) (Smarthistory).
Newman's work in the Onement series, and particularly "Onement I," was a deliberate departure from the expressive brushwork of his abstract expressionist contemporaries. Instead, he favored hard-edged areas of flat color, a choice that positioned him as a precursor to minimalism and post-painterly abstraction. His unique approach during the 1950s, although initially unappreciated, later gained recognition and significantly influenced younger artists and the development of minimalist art (Wikipedia).
The series also reflects Newman's profound engagement with themes of spirituality and existential inquiry. By reducing figurative representation and focusing on color and form, Newman sought to transcend the physical canvas and engage with deeper metaphysical questions. His work often included titles that referenced biblical figures or themes, though he approached these subjects from a non-literal, abstract perspective. This approach allowed him to explore spiritual and existential themes without relying on traditional religious imagery, thereby appealing to a universal sense of the sublime (TheCollector).
Newman's legacy, as encapsulated in the Onement series, is multifaceted, encompassing his influence on abstract expressionism, minimalism, and the broader trajectory of 20th-century art. His work challenges viewers to confront fundamental questions of existence and perception, inviting a deeply personal response to the universal conditions of humanity (The Art Story) (Smarthistory).