Let’s Yak About Art: Norman Lewis

I had the chance recently to see some of Norman Lewis’ work up close and personal. It was an awe-inspiring, special treat.

Lewis was part of the Abstract Expressionist art scene that took New York City by storm during the ’40s and ’50s. Abstract Expressionism, which would be lively post of its own merit, put New York’s art scene in the global hot seat, a distinction Paris had been privy to for so long.

Let’s take a look at some of Lewis’ work, starting with Twilight Sounds. An oil on canvas painting, it was created by Lewis in 1947, drawing its force from the musical accents that accompanied life in Harlem at the time. If you look at the painting in depth, you can see figures and musical notes jump off the canvas. The nervous energy of the painting imitates the controlled chaos of bebop and jazz. Another example of a Lewis painting with musical energy is his 1950 oil on canvas, Street Music. I can almost hear the thrusting, trilling notes pierce the air when I look at this painting.

Harlequin, oil and gouache on masonite, is one of his works that hints at his transition from Cubism stylization, which he dabbled in, to Abstract Expressionism.  Yellow Hat is another of Lewis’ paintings which features Cubist influences. Created in 1936, it’s an luscious study of form, shape and color.

Lewis’ body of work is inspiring to me.  I think it merits more than one post, so please keep your eyes peeled for the next installment of Let’s Yak About Art on Norman Lewis.