In the 1970s, Sam Gilliam's art underwent a transformative period, further solidifying his reputation as an innovator in abstract painting. This decade is particularly notable for Gilliam's development and refinement of his Drape paintings and his exploration of Beveled-Edge paintings, techniques that challenged traditional notions of painting and sculpture. The Drape paintings, which Gilliam began in the late 1960s, came into prominence during the 1970s. These works, characterized by their unstretched canvases that were draped and suspended from ceilings or walls, broke away from the conventional rectangular format and static presentation of paintings. This approach not only questioned the spatial and architectural constraints of painting but also introduced a dynamic, sculptural element to his work. The Drape paintings were site-responsive, meaning that they could be reconfigured and presented differently in each new exhibition space, emphasizing the performative aspect of Gilliam's practice​ (Dia Art Foundation)​. Another significant development in Gilliam's work during the 1970s was his Beveled-Edge paintings. Initiated in 1967, these works involved stretching canvas over beveled-edge frames, creating a sculptural effect that extended the painting into three-dimensional space. The beveled edges added depth to the canvas and allowed Gilliam to further explore the material and physical properties of paint. In works like "Spread" (1973), Gilliam employed a technique of pouring acrylic paint mixed with a surfactant onto the canvas and then folding or bunching the fabric while wet. This process resulted in complex, densely colored surfaces that challenged viewers' perceptions of depth and texture​ (Dia Art Foundation)​. Gilliam's contributions during the 1970s were not only significant in terms of his artistic output but also in the broader context of postwar American art. His experiments with the form and presentation of painting placed him in dialogue with his Minimal and Postminimal peers and expanded the possibilities of abstract art. By exploring the tension between compositional order and disorder, Gilliam's work from this period reflects a deep engagement with the legacy of Abstract Expressionism and Color Field painting, while simultaneously pushing these traditions in new directions. Through both his Drape and Beveled-Edge paintings, Gilliam demonstrated a commitment to redefining the boundaries of painting, exploring the interplay between color, form, and space in ways that continue to influence contemporary art. His work in the 1970s exemplifies his innovative spirit and his enduring impact on the development of abstract painting.