Color Theory Diagram 1952

Editor: Here we have Stuart Davis’ "Color Theory Diagram." It’s undated, but looks to be a sketch on paper. It feels very schematic. What do you see in its composition? Curator: The linear framework seems paramount. Consider the diagrammatic division of the page. Note the boxes, the text within. How do these elements contribute to the overall structure? Editor: It’s interesting that he’s focusing on the relationships between colors, but it is all in black and white! Curator: Indeed. The absence of color underscores the conceptual, rather than the perceptual, nature of this diagram. It points to an underlying logic, a structural foundation of color relations. Editor: So, he's focusing on the theory more than the practical application here. I see it now!