Morris Louis' early paintings, spanning from 1934 to 1953, represent a formative period in his artistic development. During these years, Louis explored a variety of subjects and styles, reflecting the influences of his time and his search for a personal artistic language.

One notable aspect of his early work is the diversity of subjects, including landscapes, figurative work, and abstract compositions. For instance, the painting "Trellis" from 1953, with its abstracted forms and use of acrylic resin (Magna) on canvas, hints at the direction Louis would take in his later, more renowned works. This painting, inspired by the grape arbor in Louis's garden, showcases his interest in the interplay between natural forms and abstracted designs​ (Morris Louis)​.

Another painting from this period, "Landscape (Mid-day)," also from 1953, illustrates Louis's ability to abstract from nature, transforming a landscape into a composition that balances between representation and abstraction. This work reflects his experimentation with Magna paint, allowing for a fluidity and saturation of color that would become a hallmark of his later pieces​ (Morris Louis)​.

The painting "Sub-Marine," created in 1948, offers a glimpse into Louis's experimentation with oil on canvas, showcasing a more exploratory phase of his career. This piece, which won an award when exhibited, displays a thematic focus that diverges from his later pure abstractions, incorporating a semblance of figurative elements within an abstract framework​ (Morris Louis)​.

"Reclining Woman," painted in 1947, is another example of Louis's early work, where he engaged with figurative painting. This piece underscores his versatility and willingness to explore different motifs and subjects before fully embracing the abstract and color-focused direction of his later years​ (Morris Louis)​.

Throughout this early period, Louis was honing his skills, experimenting with different materials and techniques, and gradually moving towards the color field paintings that would define his contribution to American art. His early works are essential for understanding the trajectory of his artistic evolution, from figurative and landscape subjects to the pioneering abstract expressions that would later make him a key figure in the Color Field movement.