Skip to main content

Sample Anodized Aluminum with Screenprint

Sam Gilliam

Artwork Details

Sample Anodized Aluminum with Screenprint
1996-2008
Sam Gilliam
screenprint on aluminum
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)
Transfer from the University of Michigan Art, Architecture and Engineering Libraries
2008/1.149.8

On Display

Not currently on display

Description

Subject Matter:

It 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 Description:

Blue 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.

Usage Rights:

If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.