Robert Motherwell Drawing: As Fast as the Mind Itself - The Menil Collection

Overview

• Exhibition Dates: November 18, 2022 - March 12, 2023
• Location: Menil Drawing Institute, Houston
• Curated by: Edouard Kopp, John R. Eckel, Jr. Foundation Chief Curator

Exhibition Highlights

• The exhibition features over 100 works by Robert Motherwell, showcasing his drawings from the 1940s to the 1980s.
• It is the most comprehensive exhibition on Motherwell's drawing practice in decades.
• The exhibition is organized by The Menil Collection in collaboration with the Dedalus Foundation.

Artistic Approach and Style

• Motherwell, a prominent Abstract Expressionist, was known for his innovative and spontaneous approach to drawing.
• His works integrate the accidental and intentional, drawing inspiration from Surrealism and automatic drawing.
• Motherwell explored a variety of techniques and materials, focusing on the suggestive potential of his media.

Notable Works in the Exhibition

• N.R.F. Collage No. 3, 1960: Collage with oil paint, showcasing Motherwell's use of mixed media.
• Rimbaud Series No. 3, 1967: Ink on parchment, part of his exploration of poetry and art.
• Lyric Suite, 1965: Ink on paper, exemplifying his lyrical abstraction.
• Elegy to the Spanish Republic No. 1, 1948: A politically charged ink drawing.
• Open Drawing, 1967: Ink on paper, reflecting his ongoing exploration of abstract forms.

Catalogue and Support

• An illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition, available at the Menil Bookstore.
• The exhibition celebrates the publication of "Robert Motherwell Drawings: A Catalogue Raisonné," a detailed two-volume exploration of his work.
• Underwritten by Kathy and George Britton, with additional support from various patrons and the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.

Related Events and Discussions

• Panel Discussion on Cataloguing Motherwell's Drawings: November 18, 2022
• Conversation with Artists on Motherwell: January 12, 2023
• Lecture by Edith Devaney on Motherwell: February 9, 2023

Publications and Media

• The exhibition has been featured in several media outlets, emphasizing its significance in understanding Motherwell's artistic legacy.

Additional Information

• The Menil Collection offers free admission and is open Wednesday through Sunday, 11 am to 7 pm.
• Related materials, including a gallery guide and news release, are available for further reading.