Black and White 1952

Carmen Herrera created this untitled painting in black and white with the medium of acrylic on canvas. Herrera was a Cuban-American artist, and this abstract geometric painting reflects a modernist aesthetic that was gaining momentum in the mid-20th century. Notably, the painting is from a period in which women and artists of color were often marginalized in the art world, and her rise to recognition challenged the established norms of the art market. Here, we see how the artist uses the stark contrast between black and white to create a visually dynamic composition. The lines converge towards the center, drawing the viewer's eye and creating a sense of depth and movement. Understanding the social and institutional context of Herrera's work requires research into the art world of the mid-20th century, including the galleries, museums, and critical voices that shaped its reception.