Tree House (1981)

About Tree House

Gene Davis' Tree House from 1981 represents a culmination of the artist's lifelong exploration of color and form. Created during the final decade of his career, this work exemplifies Davis' mastery of the color field technique, where carefully calibrated vertical bands of color create optical vibrations. The painting's title suggests an organic reference point, yet the work itself remains firmly abstract, demonstrating Davis' ability to evoke natural forms through pure color relationships.

The composition features Davis' signature approach of placing thin, precisely painted vertical stripes adjacent to one another. This technique creates an optical mixing effect where colors appear to blend and vibrate at their edges. Unlike his earlier works that often used a more limited palette, Tree House employs a full spectrum of hues, from deep forest greens to warm ochres and cool blues, suggesting the interplay of light through foliage.

Gene Davis and the Washington Color School

As a founding member of the Washington Color School, Gene Davis played a pivotal role in establishing Washington D.C. as a center for abstract art in the 1960s and 1970s. This movement, also known as Post-Painterly Abstraction, emphasized clean lines, bold colors, and the physical properties of paint and canvas. Tree House from 1981 represents Davis' later work where he continued to refine his approach to color field painting.

Davis' systematic approach to composition set him apart from other abstract expressionists. While many of his contemporaries focused on gestural brushwork, Davis meticulously planned his color arrangements, often using numerical systems to determine stripe widths and color sequences. This methodical approach is evident in Tree House, where the carefully balanced color bands create a sense of harmony and rhythm across the canvas.

The Technique Behind Tree House

Composition and Structure

Davis employed a rigorous approach to composition in Tree House. Using masking tape and meticulous measuring, he created perfectly straight vertical bands of varying widths. This method allowed for crisp edges and precise color transitions that define the work's visual impact. The varying stripe widths create a rhythmic pattern that draws the viewer's eye across the canvas.

Color Theory in Practice

The color palette in Tree House demonstrates Davis' deep understanding of color theory. He juxtaposes complementary colors to create optical mixing effects, where colors appear to vibrate at their boundaries. The work's title suggests an organic reference, with earthy greens and browns evoking natural forms, while the precise geometric structure maintains the work's abstract integrity.

Print & Frame Details

Interior Design Guide

The 30×40 cm size makes this print ideal for creating a focal point above a console table or sofa. The work's vertical orientation and vibrant color palette work particularly well in spaces with neutral wall colors, where the print can serve as a vibrant accent piece. Consider pairing it with mid-century modern furniture to complement the work's 1980s provenance while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic.

Frequently Asked Questions