Iris Tulips Jonquils and Crocuses 1969 by Alma Woodsey Thomas
Iris Tulips Jonquils And Crocuses
A vibrant abstract interpretation of spring blooms by pioneering African American artist Alma Woodsey Thomas. This framed print captures her signature mosaic technique and luminous color palette.
The Floral Abstractions of Alma Woodsey Thomas
Iris Tulips Jonquils And Crocuses (1969) marks a pivotal moment in Alma Woodsey Thomas's artistic journey. Created during her late career, this work exemplifies her mature abstract style that emerged after decades of teaching art in Washington D.C. The painting belongs to her celebrated floral series, where she translated natural forms into vibrant abstract compositions.
Thomas's floral abstractions differ fundamentally from traditional still lifes. She dissolves botanical forms into rhythmic patterns of color, creating what she called "alive paintings" that pulse with energy. This particular work captures spring blooms through a lens of pure color and movement, foreshadowing her later cosmic themes.
Alma Woodsey Thomas and the Washington Color School
Alma Woodsey Thomas (1891-1978) came to prominence in the 1960s as part of the Washington Color School, though her approach remained distinctly her own. Unlike her contemporaries who embraced hard-edged abstraction, Thomas developed a softer, more organic form of Abstract Expressionism rooted in nature.
Her work from 1969 represents a bridge between her early figurative paintings and later cosmic abstractions. "Iris Tulips Jonquils And Crocuses" shows her perfecting the mosaic-like technique she would later apply to celestial subjects. The painting's vibrant palette reflects both her southern childhood and her urban Washington environment.
Thomas's artistic development was unusual for her time. As an African American woman born in the late 19th century, she faced significant barriers in the art world. Her perseverance led to becoming the first graduate of Howard University's art department in 1924, where she studied under Lois Mailou Jones.
The 1960s marked her artistic breakthrough when she was in her 70s. This late recognition makes works like "Iris Tulips Jonquils And Crocuses" particularly significant as they represent her hard-won creative freedom.
The Technique Behind the Abstraction
Composition and Pattern
Thomas arranges the floral elements in a grid-like pattern that suggests both order and spontaneity. The canvas is divided into distinct color zones, yet the organic shapes create a sense of flowing movement. This tension between structure and freedom gives the work its dynamic energy.
Color and Light
Her palette of vivid purples, yellows, and greens creates visual vibration through complementary contrasts. The colors appear to advance and recede simultaneously, giving the static image a kinetic quality. The overall effect is one of luminous depth, as if the flowers are radiating light from within.
Thomas's technique involved layering small brushstrokes to create a mosaic effect. In this work, the individual marks remain visible, adding texture and depth. The composition balances symmetry with organic variation - notice how the floral forms repeat yet never become mechanical.
Print & Frame Details
| Artist | Alma Woodsey Thomas |
| Original Year | 1969 |
| Art Style | Abstract Expressionism |
| Subject Matter | Floral Still Life |
| Size | 30×40 cm (12×16") |
| Print Method | Giclée on archival cotton rag |
| Paper | 300 gsm cotton rag with matte finish |
| Frame | Solid wood with gold leaf finish |
| Glazing | UV-protective acrylic |
| Shipping | Free worldwide shipping in 5–10 business days |
| Returns | 30-day return policy with no restocking fees |
Own This Masterpiece of Color and Form
Bring home this museum-quality framed print of Alma Woodsey Thomas's vibrant floral abstraction. Each piece arrives ready to hang with free worldwide shipping included.
View Print DetailsInterior Design Guide
This print's vibrant palette makes it ideal for spaces needing energetic focal points. The 30×40 cm size works beautifully above console tables or in gallery walls. The warm tones complement earthy interiors while the abstract forms add modern sophistication.
For interior placement, consider the print's color dominance. The purples and yellows work particularly well with neutrals like warm grays or soft whites. In larger rooms, the 30×40 cm size can anchor a wall without overwhelming the space. The abstract nature allows flexible pairing with both modern and traditional furnishings.
Questions About This Print
Is the frame included with the print?
Yes, every Zephyeer print arrives with a premium frame included in the price. Our frames are crafted from solid wood and finished with archival-quality materials.
How long does shipping take?
We offer free worldwide shipping with delivery typically taking 5-10 business days. All orders are processed within 24 hours.
What paper is used for the prints?
Our prints use 300 gsm archival cotton rag paper with a smooth matte finish, ensuring museum-quality durability and color fidelity for generations.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day return policy for all orders. If you're not completely satisfied, we'll provide a full refund with no restocking fees.
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