An original acrylic on canvas by New York artist NICHOLAS LUTTINGER (b. 1942) that incorporates elements of both hard-edge abstraction and Op Art, twin offshoots of Minimalism. Both reject emphasis on personal statement: the former is characterized by areas of flat, vivid color—here various shades of blue, green, and orange—separated by sharp, distinct lines; the latter focuses on the creation of optical illusions (or other perceptual effects—e.g., the perspective games “Nick” plays). Although the canvas is unframed, the image wraps around the side of the stretcher giving the work a literal depth of 1 ½", encouraging its as-is display. Signed along one edge.

NICHOLAS LUTTINGER (b. 1942) grew up in Far Rockaway, Queens, in New York City. He enrolled at the Pratt Institute in 1959, graduating with a BFA in Graphic Arts and Illustration in 1965. Luttinger spent several years as a graphic designer while pursuing his passion for painting and printmaking. His technical knowledge and skill with various painting media—including oil, acrylic, and wax—are exceptional. He is equally skilled as a printmaker in aquatint, engraving, intaglio methods, and stone lithography.

Luttinger has spent over four decades creating art that explores the psyche and emotions while pursuing his unique vision. Since the 1970s, his graphic work has been in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City (MoMA). A drawing by the artist is held by the Estate of Jerome Robbins, the great choreographer of the past century. Luttinger’s work and vision will stand as an important contribution to the art of the late 20^th century.

Luttinger is also an accomplished Spanish-language interpreter.

DETAILS

Artist – NICHOLAS LUTTINGER

Period/Year – 1970s

Origin – USA

Styles/Movements – ABSTRACT; GEOMETRIC

Media – ACRYLIC

Support – CANVAS

Colors – CORNFLOWER, OLIVE, SALMON, NAVY

Condition – Excellent vintage condition. Minor wear consistent with age.

Dimensions – 26" H × 26" W × 1 ½" D