Clyfford Still - The Artists Materials

Clyfford Still - The Artists Materials by Barbara A. Ramsay and Susan F. Lake is a meticulous exploration into the unique techniques and materials used by the American abstract expressionist Clyfford Still. Known for his grand and gestural works, Still's approach to art-making was both innovative and complex.

The book delves into Still's experimentation with various types of canvas and his application of paint in thick layers which contribute to the tactility and luminosity of his works. Ramsay and Lake take a forensic approach, revealing insights into Still's preferences for certain pigments, mediums, and the layering techniques that defined his canvases.

This publication is essential for those interested in the intersection of art history and material science, providing a groundbreaking look at the seldom-documented intersection of artistic intent and material execution. By focusing on Still's artistic materials, the authors shed light on the broader field of conservation and art history, offering a richer understanding of an artist who sought to redefine the essence of painting.

For art enthusiasts, historians, and conservationists alike, Clyfford Still - The Artists Materials presents a compelling narrative that bridges the gap between the tactile nature of art and the theoretical realms of artist intention and audience perception.