In the 1990s, Sam Gilliam's explorations into abstract painting and sculpture continued to evolve, as he delved deeper into the integration of texture, form, and color. Throughout this period, Gilliam's commitment to expanding the boundaries of traditional painting remained evident, as seen in his innovative approaches to color field painting and his pioneering use of unstretched canvas in his Drape paintings, which began in the 1960s and continued to influence his work in subsequent decades​ (Wikipedia)​​ (The Museum of Modern Art)​. Gilliam's Drape paintings disrupted the conventional aesthetic trends of the time by presenting unstretched canvases that were draped and hung, allowing the fabric to exhibit a sculptural quality. This not only emphasized the materiality of the canvas but also highlighted Gilliam's interest in the spatial and architectural context of his works. His approach breathed new life into the concerns of painterly abstraction, finding a fresh path forward by drawing from both the past and the present artistic dialogues​ (TheCollector)​. In the 1980s and into the 1990s, Gilliam's artistic exploration extended to collaged works, particularly evident in his Black Paintings series, which began in 1975. These pieces combined geometric shapes with thick applications of paint, merging the visual languages of Action Painting and Color Field Painting. Gilliam's later works also demonstrated a growing complexity and busyness in color and overlapping patterns, with quilting influences becoming more pronounced​ (TheCollector)​. Despite facing periods where the art world's attention seemed to wane, Gilliam continued to exhibit widely and undertake large-scale public and private commissions. His career, which spanned over seven decades, reflected a continuous drive towards innovation and experimentation, influencing countless artists and contributing significantly to the fields of abstract painting and sculpture. The resurgence of interest in his work during the 2000s further solidified his legacy as a pivotal figure in contemporary art​ (The Museum of Modern Art)​. Gilliam's work in the 1990s and beyond underscored his role as a boundary-pushing artist, constantly seeking new ways to engage with the materials and forms of abstract art. His contributions to the art world, particularly in his approach to color, form, and the spatial dimensions of painting, continue to be celebrated and studied for their innovative spirit and profound impact on the trajectory of abstract art.