J. Steven Manolis (b. 1948-)
Black & White Universe, 2020
Acrylic on Canvas
40 x 30 inches
“Universe is the juxtaposition between art and reality, scale and perception, and less as more. How can an all-encompassing idea be reduced to a single word or canvas? But it can be, as Manolis explores his relationship between himself, as an individual, and the vastness universe in this painting." Donald Kuspit
J. Steven Manolis started focusing on painting Black & White abstract paintings as a category when art critic Donald Kuspit said to him, "I see what you can do with colors, but show me what you can do with black and white."
Later, Kuspit would write, "Black is another color, as Matisse said. Manolis’ mastery of black confirms that he is a modern master … and with that an abstract expressionist…"
Manolis paints Black & White paintings on canvas and watercolors. This is the only category for which he chooses a different feeling or theme to explore on an annual basis.