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1990s
1990s

The 1990s were the final chapter in Sam Francis's illustrious career, a period marked by continued creativity despite significant personal health challenges. Until his death in 1994, Francis remained a vibrant part of the art world, leaving a legacy that continues to influence and inspire. His work from this era showcases the culmination of a lifetime of exploration in color, form, and the interaction of light. During the last years of his life, Francis faced the challenge of prostate cancer, which limited his physical capacity to create art in the way he had previously. Despite this, he adapted remarkably by switching to using his left hand after a fall incapacitated his right. This period was characterized by a burst of energy that led him to complete about 150 small paintings, demonstrating his indomitable spirit and passion for his craft​ (www.wikiart.org)​. Sam Francis's legacy is preserved and promoted by the Sam Francis Foundation, established after his death. The foundation's mission is to research, document, protect, and perpetuate Francis's creative legacy, promoting awareness and knowledge about his art through education and information. This includes the publication of a Catalogue Raisonné of Francis's work, documenting 1,855 of his paintings, alongside photos, writings, and films related to his artistic process​ (Wikipedia)​. Francis's impact on the art world is celebrated through exhibitions, educational events, and archival explorations. The foundation also focuses on the nature of creativity and innovation, reflecting Francis's interests beyond the canvas, in technology, psychology, and environmental conservation​ (Sam Francis Foundation)​​ (Sam Francis Foundation)​. Despite the limited output of his later years, Francis's work from the 1990s is a testament to his enduring ability to communicate profound emotional and visual experiences. His continued exploration of the creative process, even in the face of personal adversity, solidifies his position as a key figure in post-war American painting, with a significant international reputation that spans across major museum collections globally​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Sam Francis Foundation)​.