Morris Louis' "Florals" series, created between 1959 and 1960, is a remarkable exploration of color and form that continues the artist's journey into Color Field painting. These works stand out for their use of acrylic resin (Magna) on canvas, a medium that allowed Louis to achieve stunning vibrancy and depth in his compositions. The "Florals" series is part of his broader "Themes and Variations" period, showcasing his mastery in manipulating fluid paint to create forms that, while abstract, evoke natural elements and landscapes.
"Floral V," for example, measures an impressive 108 x 144 inches, illustrating the grand scale on which Louis preferred to work during this phase of his career. The provenance and exhibition history of this painting highlight its significance, having been displayed in notable venues such as the Denver Art Museum and the Smithsonian American Art Museum between 2007 and 2008 (Morris Louis).
"Floral II" presents another compelling example, with dimensions of 98 1/4 x 130 3/4 inches. This piece found a home in the Tel Aviv Museum, Israel, following its donation by Marcella Louis Brenner in 1973. Its exhibition history includes displays at the Israel Museum and the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, underscoring its international recognition (Morris Louis).
The first painting in the series, simply titled "Floral," measures 103 x 142 inches and has a rich history of ownership and display. Originally in the collection of notable figures such as Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller and later private collectors, it has been featured in several important exhibitions, including at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in 1963 and the Museum of Modern Art in 1969. This work encapsulates Louis's intent to push the boundaries of abstract expressionism, inviting viewers to experience the emotive power of color and form without the constraints of traditional representational art (Morris Louis).
Through the "Florals" series, Morris Louis further developed his unique approach to painting, emphasizing the fluidity and transparency of color. These works, with their expansive canvases and immersive color fields, are a testament to Louis's innovative spirit and his significant contribution to the American abstract art movement of the mid-20th century.