With a world auction record of $5.4 million, set again in the spring of 2017, Jean-Paul Riopelle (1923-2002) is arguably the most successful post-war abstract painter from Canada.

While Americans have traditionally favored Jackson Pollock as the most influential Abstract Expressionist of the 20th century, in Europe (and beyond) Riopelle's stature is of competing importance for his version of 'automatic' action painting.

His early canvases were densely intricate webs of constructed color created by using a palette knife. His later work both loosened up and became more structured as he experimented with composition and more specific palettes. 

Riopelle's last chapter of production was quite an interesting departure; he began to experiment with stencils, spray paint and ultimately embrace figuration. 

This particular work, with its dynamic palette of indigo blue, hunter green, red, silver, white and gold is distinctive paradigm of Riopelle's printmaking from the last chapter of his remarkable life.

This uplifting work was created in conjunction with the summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea 1988.  

Questions about this piece?  or call 1.416.704.1720

Additional images available on request. 

Signed and numbered by the artist.

Color silkscreen

From an edition of 300

35"H 23.5"W (image)

Excellent condition.