Franz Kline: Making the Gestural Monumental

Franz Kline's minimalistic abstractions are large (several feet by several feet), and very dramatic when seen in person. Often based on spontaneous sketches, the paintings themselves are very composed. The restraint of the color palette adds to the power. His works are often my favorite when I view the permanent holdings of a major art museum. Note on influence: I understand that Kline was more inspired by asphalt patchwork on roadways than by Japanese calligraphy. In fact, I think of that aesthetic tidbit every time I see some patching.