Frank Stella's "Moby Dick" series, created between 1985 and 1997, represents a significant phase in the artist's exploration of abstract forms and their relationship to literary themes. This body of work delves into the narrative of Herman Melville's "Moby Dick," using the epic tale as a foundation for Stella's artistic experimentation. The series encompasses a variety of mediums, including paintings, relief sculptures, collages, and prints, showcasing Stella's versatility and his innovative approach to material and form.

Born in 1936, Frank Stella has had a prolific career that spans from geometric abstraction to baroque sculptures, with a significant evolution in style and technique over the decades. His early work in the late 1950s and 1960s was characterized by rigorous abstraction and minimalism, using shapes and monochrome bands to explore spatial relationships and form. By the 1970s, Stella's work transitioned towards more three-dimensional pieces, including the "Polish Village" and "Brazilian Reliefs" series, which introduced textured surfaces and a more dynamic interplay of forms.

The "Moby Dick" series marks a further evolution in Stella's work, where the narrative and thematic elements of Melville's novel serve as a springboard for artistic exploration. This series is notable for its ambitious scale and the integration of multiple printing and sculptural techniques, reflecting Stella's interest in pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms. Pieces from the series, such as "Squid" (1989) and "The Cabin. Ahab and Starbuck (Dome)" (1992), highlight the artist's ongoing exploration of the interplay between two-dimensional and three-dimensional space, as well as his interest in layering and texture.

Throughout his career, Stella has remained committed to the idea that art should constantly evolve, embracing movement and change while exploring the relationship between painting, sculpture, and architecture. His work, including the "Moby Dick" series, challenges conventional distinctions between these disciplines, suggesting a fluidity and interconnectedness that reflects the complexity of modern artistic practice.

The "Moby Dick" series by Frank Stella is a testament to the artist's innovative spirit and his ability to draw inspiration from a wide range of sources, including literature, to create works that are both visually striking and conceptually rich​ (FAMSF)​​ (LeDelarge)​.