Sam Gilliam means a great deal to the world of modern abstract art. However, few know that one of his pieces is currently on display in our very own PMAC gallery.
Born in 1993, Gilliam is considered a lyrical abstractionist and a color field painter. With his experimentations of different colors and textures, the artist has gained many admirers within the art community. His work is in the collections of many modern art museums including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the Brooklyn Museum.
Gilliam was one of the first painters to experiment with the idea of an unsupported canvas, which eventually became a popular style. However, Gilliam did not stop there. He also introduced the idea of “Black Painting,” in which he incorporates geometric figures onto a predominantly black background.
Along with creating artwork, Gilliam teaches visual art. He believes that teaching art should be part of the mission of every artist. In 1989, Gilliam was quoted in “Working With His Seven League Boots On,” American Visions, by Curtia James:“I am a better artist today in that I am obviously a better teacher. Whether I am teaching or making art, the process is fundamentally the same: I am creating.” Over the decades, Gilliam has taught in a variety of institutions including the Washington public school, the Maryland Institute, the College of Art, the University of Maryland, and Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh.
Although one of his pieces is exhibited at Choate, Gilliam does not have a direct affiliation to the school. His painting “Tires” was donated by Choate alumnus Edward Fox. “It’s a meaningful piece of art not only because this is an artist that has been discovered and appreciated in the art world, but also because of what he represents. I think his artwork really is a standout amongst many of the pieces of art Choate has,” said Ms. Kalya Yannatos, Department Head of the Arts Center.
Recently, there have been disagreements around how the painting should be hung. Some think it should be vertical and others think horizontal. “Ms. Judy Donald thinks vertical is right, but based on where the signature is on the painting, we are not convinced. It’s sort of a mystery, but some people are pretty adamant it should be horizontal,” Ms. Yannatos remarked. These disagreements give an impression of the abstract nature of Gilliam’s work.
Every student should take a look at “Tires” in the PMAC to appreciate the work of world-renowned artist Sam Gilliam.
