Sam Gilliam's innovative contributions to abstract art extend significantly through his Slice (or Beveled-edge) and Quilt works, highlighting his relentless pursuit of material and formal experimentation. These series reflect a crucial period in Gilliam's development, characterized by a bold reimagining of painting's traditional boundaries and a deep engagement with the canvas as a physical and expressive material.
The Slice or Beveled-edge paintings, initiated in the late 1960s, marked a pivotal turn in Gilliam's practice. These works are notable for their use of beveled frames, which allowed the paintings to protrude from the wall, creating a dynamic interaction between the artwork and its architectural environment. By pouring acrylic paints onto the canvas and then folding it over on itself while still wet, Gilliam achieved prismatic spatial effects and unexpected color combinations. This method pushed the boundaries of the staining and soaking techniques associated with the Washington Color School to new lyrical extremes, emphasizing the painting's sculptural qualities and its active engagement with the viewer (David Kordansky Gallery).
Following the innovations of the Slice series, Gilliam's exploration of texture and form evolved into the Quilt works during the 1980s. These pieces saw the artist layering thick acrylic paint and gels on canvas, then cutting geometric shapes from these richly textured surfaces and rearranging them into new compositions. This approach resonated with the visual traditions of African American quilts, echoing the improvisational spirit of jazz music, which Gilliam often cited as an influence. The Quilt paintings, thus, represent a synthesis of Gilliam's interests in color, rhythm, and the tactile properties of his materials, further blurring the lines between painting and sculpture (Artsy).
Gilliam's work during these phases of his career not only demonstrates his innovative spirit but also his ongoing dialogue with the broader socio-political and cultural movements of his time. By constantly redefining his approach to abstract painting, Gilliam affirmed the medium's relevance as a form of engaged citizenship, capable of addressing the complexities of identity, difference, and expression within a rapidly changing society (David Kordansky Gallery).
These contributions underscore Gilliam's lasting impact on the field of contemporary art, making him a crucial figure for collectors and institutions alike. His legacy continues to influence a new generation of artists who navigate the intersections of abstraction, politics, and cultural identity, demonstrating the enduring power of Gilliam's vision (Artsy).