Sam Francis

Untitled, 1984

106.7 X 73 inch

What is Gutai?

What is Gutai?

Gutai was a group of Japanese radical artists who formed the Gutai Art Association in 1954. The word Gutai translates to embodiment. The group was known for creating art on the spot for live audiences, often incorporating their own physical movements. Their performances included actions like throwing paint, piercing paper, and rolling in mud, emphasizing the direct interaction between the body and the material.

Carborundum

Carborundum is the trademark name for silicon carbide crystals, an abrasive material commonly used in sandpaper, cutting tools, and grinding wheels. Originally, artists used carborundum for grinding lithography stones. In collagraph printmaking, it is applied to plates to create texture and tone gradients, adding depth and contrast to the prints.

Engraving

Engraving is a printmaking technique where a metal plate or surface is directly cut using a sharp engraving tool called a burin. The tool creates deep lines or grooves, which are then filled with ink. The plate is pressed onto paper with heavy pressure, transferring the inked image. This process results in a clear and precise print.

Airbrush

An airbrush is a device that sprays various media, including paint and ink, using compressed air. Artists use airbrushes to create a smooth, even application of color, often achieving effects that are not possible with traditional brushes. James Rosenquist, an American Pop artist, regularly used an airbrush in his work. Before gaining fame with pieces like the iconic F-111 (1965), he worked as a commercial and industrial painter, where he honed his airbrush skills.

Can't find your Answer?