A prominent figure in the American art scene, known for abstract expressionist paintings and teaching at esteemed institutions like Yale and Harvard.
Irving Petlin, an American artist and painter, is renowned for his unparalleled mastery of the pastel medium and groundbreaking collaborations with other artists. His work in the series form, which combines raw materials like pastel, oil paint, and unprimed linen, has inspired generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Born on December 17, 1934, Petlin attended the Art Institute of Chicago from 1953 to 1956, where he received his BFA during the height of the Chicago Imagist movement. He then went on to study under the legendary Josef Albers at Yale, earning his MFA in 1960.
In 1964, Petlin's work was showcased at the Hanover Gallery in London and Galerie du Dragon in Paris, influencing the Nouvelle figuration movement. The same year, he was invited to teach at UCLA as a visiting artist, alongside notable artists Richard Diebenkorn and Llyn Foulkes.
While in California, Petlin became a principal organizer of the Artists Protest movement against the war in Vietnam. He founded the Artists Protest Committee, which held open meetings at the Dwan Gallery, where artists came together to express their dissent.
In 1966, Petlin, along with Mark di Suvero, Philip Lieder, Craig Kauffman, Larry Bell, Walter Hopps, Rolf Nelson, Judy Chicago, Lloyd Hamrol, Hardy Hanson, Eric Orr, and Tanya Nuefeld, planned the Peace Tower, a monumental installation that protested the Vietnam War. The tower, which was dedicated by Susan Sontag, was ultimately attacked overnight.
Petlin's contributions to the art world have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. Some of his notable achievements include his first major one-man exhibition at the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Brussels in 1965 and his participation in the prestigious Venice Biennale in 1968.
Petlin's work has had a profound impact on modern society, inspiring a generation of artists to experiment with new mediums and techniques. His commitment to social causes, particularly his anti-war activism, has made him a role model for artists who seek to use their craft as a tool for social change.
Petlin's work reflects his deep commitment to social causes and his belief in the power of art to inspire change. Through his art, he has consistently challenged the status quo, pushing boundaries and exploring new ways of expression.
Irving Petlin's legacy extends far beyond his individual achievements, inspiring generations of artists to experiment with new mediums and techniques. His commitment to social causes has made him a role model for artists who seek to use their craft as a tool for social change.
Through his groundbreaking work and tireless activism, Petlin has left an indelible mark on the art world, cementing his place as one of the most important American artists of the 20th century.
Born in 1903
A pioneer of abstract expressionism, creating bold, rectangular color fields that evoke emotions and spark introspection. His works are a testament to the power of art to transcend language and culture.
Born in 1905
A pioneer of Abstract Expressionism, creating bold, color-field paintings that evoke emotions and spirituality. His iconic "zip" paintings feature vibrant, vertical stripes that seem to pulse with energy.
Born in 1904
A pioneering abstract expressionist, creating large-scale, gestural paintings that explored the human experience and the American West. Known for his bold, expressive brushstrokes and vibrant color palette.
Born in 1913
A prominent abstract artist and educator, known for his bold, geometric paintings that explored the spiritual and emotional potential of art. He also wrote extensively on art theory and criticism.
Born in 1925
A pioneer of pop art, combining found objects and images to create innovative, thought-provoking works that blurred the lines between art and everyday life.
95 Years Old
A pioneer of pop art, creating enigmatic works that explore the relationship between perception, reality, and meaning, often using common images like flags and targets.
Born in 1923
A pioneering figure in modern art, known for bold, colorful, and geometric paintings and sculptures that explore the relationship between shape, color, and space. Their works are characterized by simplicity, precision, and a sense of playfulness.
Born in 1912
A pioneering abstract artist, she created serene, grid-based paintings that explored emotions and spirituality, earning her a reputation as a leading figure in minimalism.
