Swing

Copied Sam Gilliam, Swing, 1969, acrylic and aluminum on canvas, 119 5⁄8 x 283 1⁄2 in. (303.8 x 720.1 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. Edwin Janss, Jr., 1973.189

Artwork Details

Title
Swing
Artist
Date
1969
Location
Dimensions
119 5⁄8 x 283 1⁄2 in. (303.8 x 720.1 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. Edwin Janss, Jr.
Mediums
Mediums Description
acrylic and aluminum on canvas
Classifications
Highlights
Subjects
  • Abstract
Object Number
1973.189
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1973.189

Artwork Description

Known for inviting chance and change into his process, Sam Gilliam created Swing by folding and crumpling canvas that he had soaked in paint. Once dry, the bundled fabric was opened and hung to reveal dazzling fields of spontaneous color and pattern.

The title Swing reflects the swagged shape of the painting, hanging free of stretcher bars. The word also evokes Gilliam's desire to "just work and let things go," like the bebop and jazz musicians he liked to listen to while painting.