George Vranesh Limited Edition Serigraph "Northern Element"

Item Details

A limited edition serigraph on paper titled Northern Element by artist George Vranesh (American, 1926-2014). Published in 1974, the work depicts a colorful abstract scene with various symbols and blocks of color. Numbered 133 in an edition of 200. To the lower margin, the print is titled, editioned, signed, and dated in graphite. Presented as a loose print without a frame.

An accomplished educator and printmaker, Vranesh is known for his colorful modernist works. He received an MA in anthropology at the University of Iowa and studied art at the Art Students League in New York during the mid-1950s. In New York, Vranesh studied under American artist Will Barnet. Barnet encouraged his students to study art history and to utilize experimentation. In experimenting with color and studying art history, Vranesh developed his personal style. He was influenced by the Purism theories of Cubist painter and writer Amédée Ozenfant and color theory of Hans Hofmann. Purism theories taught that color was secondary to form and aimed to maximize brightness and harmony. Hofman’s “push and pull” theories used contrast, form, and texture of colors create a sense of space and depth on a flat surface. Vranesh’s anthropology studies had a significant influence on his work. Studying the visual cultures of a wide variety of peoples resulted in simplified, organic forms and a lack of distinction between positive and negative space. In his lifetime, he exhibited in New York, Anchorage, Alaska; and Newport, Rhode Island.

Condition

- curling to paper in lower left and upper right corners.

Dimensions

- measures sheet size; plate size 20" W x 20" H.

Item #

16NYC996-030