Accession Number2008/1.149.8
TitleSample Anodized Aluminum with Screenprint
Artist(s)Sam GilliamArtist NationalityAmerican (North American)Object Creation Date1996-2008Medium & Supportscreenprint on aluminumDimensions 7 9/16 in x 14 3/8 in x 3/16 in (19.21 cm x 36.51 cm x 0.48 cm);7 9/16 in x 14 3/8 in x 3/16 in (19.21 cm x 36.51 cm x 0.48 cm)
Credit LineTransfer from the University of Michigan Art, Architecture and Engineering LibrariesSubject matterIt appears that this was part of a project study for the entrance atrium area of the University of Michigan Duderstadt center, although it is unclear if it was installed. Sam Gilliam is best known for his drape paintings which blur the line between painting and sculpture. The color and interaction of cut-out shapes and veil-like paint are reminiscent of his drape paintings. Gilliam began working with metals in the late 1980s and 1990s when he started doing outdoor public art comissions. He is known for experimenting with surfaces and textures, and abandoned the standard canvas fairly early in his career. Unlike many other African American artists working during the same periods, Gilliam has achieved great success. Notably, his work has done well at auction. Several of his paintings were auctioned at Swann's first African American art auction in 2007. Gilliam has exhibited nationally and internationally, and his work is included in the permanent collections of major museums.
Physical DescriptionBlue anodized aluminum with two laser-cut abstract shapes and orange, yellow, and white screen-printed designs based on the shape of the floorplan of the UM Duderstadt Center.
Primary Object ClassificationMixed MediaCollection AreaModern and ContemporaryRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.
Keywords
Abstract (fine arts style)
aluminum (metal)
mixed-media artists
studies (visual works)