Exploring The Dimensions Of Barnett Newman's Jericho: A Comprehensive Guide

what is the size of barnett newman

Barnett Newman's painting Jericho is a significant work in the realm of abstract expressionism. Created in 1950, it exemplifies Newman's exploration of color fields and the emotional impact of large-scale canvases. The painting's dimensions are substantial, measuring approximately 92 1/8 inches in height and 51 1/8 inches in width (234 cm x 130 cm). This size allows for an immersive viewing experience, drawing the observer into the expansive field of Newman's signature zips, which are the vertical lines of color that dominate his works. Jericho features a striking palette, with a central band of red flanked by areas of blue, yellow, and white, creating a dynamic interplay of hues that evoke a sense of depth and movement. The painting's large scale and bold use of color reflect Newman's intention to engage viewers on a visceral and emotional level, making Jericho a powerful example of mid-20th-century abstract art.

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Dimensions: Barnett Newman's Jericho measures 84 x 51 inches (213.4 x 130 cm)

Barnett Newman's "Jericho" is a monumental work of art that commands attention not only through its visual impact but also through its imposing dimensions. Measuring 84 x 51 inches (213.4 x 130 cm), this painting is a testament to Newman's ability to convey profound meaning through scale and form. The size of "Jericho" is significant, as it allows the artist to explore the relationship between the viewer and the artwork, creating an immersive experience that envelops the observer.

The dimensions of "Jericho" are particularly noteworthy when considering the context in which the painting was created. Newman's work is often associated with the Abstract Expressionist movement, which emerged in the 1940s and 1950s. During this time, artists were pushing the boundaries of traditional painting, experimenting with new techniques and materials. The large scale of "Jericho" reflects this spirit of innovation and the desire to create art that could not be easily contained or categorized.

In terms of composition, the size of "Jericho" allows Newman to explore the concept of the "zip," a vertical line that he famously used in many of his works. The zip in "Jericho" is a bold, black line that divides the canvas into two distinct sections, creating a sense of tension and balance. The dimensions of the painting enable Newman to fully realize this concept, as the zip can be seen as a powerful force that both unites and separates the different elements of the composition.

The physical size of "Jericho" also has practical implications for its display and preservation. Given its large dimensions, the painting requires a significant amount of space to be viewed properly, and it may not be suitable for all galleries or museums. Additionally, the size of the artwork presents challenges for conservationists, who must take special care to protect it from damage and deterioration.

In conclusion, the dimensions of Barnett Newman's "Jericho" are a crucial aspect of its identity as a work of art. The painting's size not only enhances its visual impact but also reflects the artist's innovative approach to abstraction and his exploration of the relationship between the viewer and the artwork. As such, "Jericho" remains a significant and influential piece in the history of modern art.

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Canvas: The painting is created on canvas, a common medium for Newman's works

Barnett Newman's "Jericho" is a monumental work, not only in terms of its physical dimensions but also in its artistic impact. The painting, created on canvas, exemplifies Newman's signature style of color field painting, where large expanses of color dominate the composition. Canvas, a durable and versatile medium, allowed Newman to achieve the bold, seamless color transitions that are characteristic of his work.

The choice of canvas as a medium was crucial for Newman, as it provided a sturdy surface that could support the thick layers of paint he applied. This was particularly important for a work like "Jericho," which features a complex interplay of colors and textures. The canvas's ability to absorb and hold paint without warping or cracking ensured that Newman could create a piece that would remain stable and vibrant over time.

Moreover, canvas offered Newman a certain degree of flexibility in terms of scale. "Jericho" is a large painting, and the use of canvas allowed Newman to work on a grand scale without compromising the integrity of the piece. The medium's portability also meant that Newman could easily transport the painting to different locations, which was essential for an artist who was constantly on the move.

In conclusion, the use of canvas as a medium for "Jericho" was a deliberate choice that enabled Newman to fully realize his artistic vision. The canvas's durability, versatility, and portability made it an ideal surface for creating a work of such scale and complexity. As a result, "Jericho" stands as a testament to the power of canvas as a medium for artistic expression.

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Color: Jericho features a dominant blue field with a central vertical stripe

The painting "Jericho" by Barnett Newman is a striking example of color field painting, a genre of abstract art that emphasizes large, unbroken areas of color. The dominant blue field in "Jericho" is a profound and intense hue, creating a sense of depth and vastness. This expansive blue is interrupted only by a central vertical stripe, which adds a dynamic element to the otherwise serene composition.

The central vertical stripe in "Jericho" is a key feature of Newman's work. It is a bold, contrasting color that draws the viewer's eye and creates a focal point within the painting. The stripe is not merely a decorative element; it is an integral part of the painting's structure and meaning. Newman used the stripe to explore the relationship between color and form, and to challenge the traditional notions of composition in abstract art.

In terms of size, "Jericho" is a large painting, measuring approximately 90 inches by 54 inches. This scale is typical of Newman's work, as he often created large, immersive pieces that were meant to be experienced in person. The size of the painting allows the viewer to fully appreciate the subtleties of color and form, and to engage with the work on a physical and emotional level.

The use of blue in "Jericho" is particularly significant. Blue is often associated with calmness, serenity, and spirituality, and Newman's use of this color in such a dominant way creates a meditative and contemplative atmosphere. The central stripe, on the other hand, adds a sense of tension and drama to the painting, creating a dynamic interplay between the two elements.

Overall, "Jericho" is a powerful and evocative work of art that showcases Newman's mastery of color and form. The painting's large scale and bold use of color make it a standout piece in the history of abstract art, and its influence can still be felt today.

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Style: It exemplifies Newman's Color Field painting style, emphasizing simplicity and color

Barnett Newman's painting "Jericho" is a quintessential example of his Color Field style, which is characterized by its emphasis on simplicity and color. This style emerged in the 1940s and 1950s as part of the Abstract Expressionist movement, and Newman was one of its leading proponents. In "Jericho," Newman uses large, flat areas of color to create a sense of depth and emotion, eschewing representational forms in favor of pure abstraction.

The painting's size is significant, measuring approximately 92 x 54 inches (233.7 x 137.2 cm). This large scale allows Newman to fully explore the possibilities of color and form, creating an immersive experience for the viewer. The size also reflects the grandeur and ambition of Newman's artistic vision, as he sought to create works that would have a profound impact on the viewer.

Newman's use of color in "Jericho" is particularly noteworthy. The painting features a range of hues, including deep blues, vibrant reds, and subtle grays. These colors are applied in broad, sweeping strokes, creating a sense of movement and energy. The simplicity of the composition, with its large, unadorned areas of color, allows the viewer to focus on the emotional and expressive qualities of the painting.

The style of "Jericho" is also marked by its emphasis on the physical act of painting. Newman's brushstrokes are visible and tactile, adding a sense of texture and materiality to the work. This focus on the physicality of painting is a hallmark of Abstract Expressionism, and it is particularly evident in Newman's Color Field paintings.

In conclusion, Barnett Newman's "Jericho" is a powerful example of his Color Field painting style. Its large size, bold use of color, and emphasis on simplicity and physicality make it a significant work in the history of Abstract Expressionism. The painting's style reflects Newman's belief in the expressive potential of color and form, and it continues to inspire and influence artists today.

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Historical Context: Painted in 1950, it reflects the post-war era's artistic shift towards abstraction

Barnett Newman's "Jericho," painted in 1950, is a seminal work that encapsulates the post-war era's artistic shift towards abstraction. This period, marked by the aftermath of World War II, saw a significant departure from traditional representational art towards more introspective and non-figurative forms. Newman's piece is a prime example of this transition, embodying the essence of abstract expressionism.

The painting's creation in 1950 places it at the heart of a pivotal moment in art history. The post-war years were characterized by a sense of liberation and a desire to break away from the constraints of conventional art forms. Artists like Newman sought to express the ineffable, focusing on the emotional and psychological rather than the literal. "Jericho" reflects this ethos through its minimalist composition and bold use of color, which invites viewers to engage with the artwork on a deeply personal level.

Newman's approach in "Jericho" is indicative of the broader trends in post-war art. The painting's simplicity and emphasis on form and color over representational accuracy align with the principles of abstract expressionism. This movement valued spontaneity, intuition, and the subconscious, seeking to tap into the viewer's inner world. "Jericho" achieves this through its stark, yet evocative, visual language, which encourages contemplation and introspection.

Furthermore, the historical context of "Jericho" is enriched by the cultural and intellectual milieu of the time. The post-war era was marked by a flourishing of artistic innovation, with New York City emerging as a hub for avant-garde art. Newman, along with other prominent artists of the period, was part of this vibrant community, which fostered collaboration and the exchange of ideas. This environment played a crucial role in shaping the development of abstract expressionism and, by extension, the creation of "Jericho."

In conclusion, Barnett Newman's "Jericho" is not only a masterpiece of abstract expressionism but also a reflection of the broader artistic and cultural shifts of the post-war era. Its creation in 1950 situates it at a critical juncture in art history, where the move towards abstraction was gaining momentum. The painting's minimalist composition, bold use of color, and emphasis on emotional expression encapsulate the spirit of this transformative period, making it a significant work in the canon of modern art.

Frequently asked questions

Barnett Newman's painting "Jericho" measures approximately 90 inches by 54 inches (228.6 cm by 137.2 cm).

"Jericho" is one of Barnett Newman's larger works. For comparison, his famous painting "Onement 1" measures 72 inches by 54 inches (182.9 cm by 137.2 cm), making "Jericho" significantly taller.

The large size of "Jericho" is significant in the context of abstract expressionism as it allows for a more immersive experience, enabling viewers to engage with the painting on a physical and emotional level. The expansive canvas also emphasizes the bold, gestural brushstrokes and the dramatic use of color that are characteristic of Newman's style.

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