In the 1990s, Helen Frankenthaler's art continued to evolve, demonstrating a profound engagement with the natural world and exploring the materiality of paint. This decade was marked by a series of works that delved into abstract climates and the sensations they evoke, rather than direct representations of nature. Her paintings from this period are full of atmospheric moods, suggesting landscapes or natural phenomena without explicitly depicting them​ (Gagosian)​. One notable work from this period, "Hot Ice" (1990), showcases Frankenthaler's masterful use of varying paint volumes and textures to create dynamic compositions. In this painting, the presence of the artist's hand is evident, from clear imprints that suggest melting ice to more abstract, less defined marks. This attention to the physicality of painting underscores Frankenthaler's ongoing exploration of the painting process itself​ (The Forward)​. Frankenthaler's late works also demonstrate her continued innovation with color and form. "Contentment Island" (2002), named after her Darien, Connecticut, address, epitomizes her ability to evoke the essence of a landscape with minimal means, using color, form, and a light touch to suggest natural elements like wind, water, and sky. This work, along with others from the late 1990s and early 2000s, highlights Frankenthaler's enduring interest in conveying the atmosphere of the natural world through abstract means​ (Art New England)​. The exhibition "Drawing within Nature: Paintings from the 1990s," held at Gagosian, featured works that spanned from 1990 to 1995, illustrating the range and depth of Frankenthaler's exploration during this decade. Works such as "Poseidon" (1990) and "Stella Polaris" (1990) evoke the majesty of ocean currents and the vastness of the night sky through abstract compositions. Meanwhile, "Western Roadmap" (1991) and "Reef" and "Spellbound" (both 1991) display her use of rich colors and varied densities to create immersive, dynamic scenes. These works not only showcase Frankenthaler's mastery of color and composition but also her innovative use of materials, such as gel to thicken paint and tools like combs and rakes to create textured surfaces​ (GothamToGo)​. Throughout the 1990s, Frankenthaler remained a pivotal figure in the art world, her work continuing to inspire and captivate audiences with its beauty and complexity. Her exploration of abstract climates and the sensations of nature, coupled with her innovative techniques, cemented her legacy as a significant artist of the 20th century.