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Defense Date
1997
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Art History
First Advisor
Dr. Howard Risatti
Abstract
This study is an examination of the influence of Oriental (specifically Chinese and Japanese) art and ideas on Robert Motherwell's work. To a certain extent, it is also an effort to balance previous interpretations that have mainly focused on the influence of Surrealists, Mondrian, and Picasso and to shed new light on the understanding of Motherwell's art. Consideration is given to the historical background of Motherwell's interest in Oriental art and ideas as well as the relation between this interest and his major artistic concerns. Among other things, the thesis investigates the influence of Oriental concept of the void on Motherwell's spatial conception, especially in the sense of using empty space. It also gives an account of the influence of Oriental calligraphy and ink painting on Motherwell's work in terms of pictorial languages and physical action.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
June 2008
VCU Only:
Off Campus Download
Comments
Part of Retrospective ETD Collection, restricted to VCU only.