Brice Marden's "Cold Mountain" series, created between 1988 and 1992, stands as a pivotal body of work within his illustrious career, marking a significant stylistic evolution. This series, comprising paintings, drawings, and etchings, was deeply inspired by the poetry of the ninth-century Chinese hermit and poet Hanshan, whose name translates to "Cold Mountain." Marden's fascination with Hanshan's poetry, along with his interest in the aesthetics and process of calligraphy, played a crucial role in the development of these works. The series is characterized by its integration of abstract curvilinear forms and gestural lines, which reflect Marden's interpretation of calligraphic strokes and embody his ongoing exploration of abstraction and minimalism (Dia Art Foundation) (Gagosian).
Marden's "Cold Mountain" works are not merely visual compositions; they are imbued with a contemplative quality that invites viewers to engage with the paintings on a sensory and introspective level. The exhibition of this series showcased Marden's methodical approach to painting, where gesture becomes a central element of composition, situating his work within the broader discourse of Abstract Expressionism and Minimalism. The use of monochromatic panels and abstract figures, which twist and layer across the canvas, exemplify Marden's innovative techniques and his nuanced understanding of color, form, and texture (Dia Art Foundation).
The creation of the "Cold Mountain" series was a key creative experiment for Marden, marking his transition from monochrome to calligraphic painting. This stylistic shift was significantly influenced by Hanshan's poetry and the work of translator Bill Porter, contributing to Marden's broader interest in Asian art and culture, particularly the process and aesthetics of calligraphy. The series not only underscores Marden's mastery over his medium but also reflects his ability to draw inspiration from diverse cultural sources, reinterpreting these influences through his unique artistic lens (Gagosian).
Brice Marden's "Cold Mountain" series represents a critical juncture in his career, embodying his deep engagement with the natural world, the intricacies of human perception, and the cross-cultural exchange of artistic ideas. Through this body of work, Marden invites viewers into a meditative space, where the fluidity of line and form converges with the philosophical depths of poetry, offering a rich tapestry of visual and conceptual complexity that continues to resonate within the contemporary art world (Encyclopedia Britannica).