Purvis Young

American, 1943 - 2010

Explore selected works

The image shows a collection of rectangular sheets stacked unevenly with varying degrees of overlapping. The top sheet is covered in abstract brushstrokes of pale white, with hints of colors such as red and green peeking through. Below the top layer, parts of the underlying sheets are visible, displaying portions of decorative patterns and colors.
Purvis Young, Untitled, 1993, artist’s book with paint, crayon, ballpoint pen, and marker on found papers and boards pasted to coloring book, Patrons' Permanent Fund and Gift of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, 2020.28.31

Untitled

Purvis Young · 1993 · artist’s book with paint, crayon, ballpoint pen, and marker on found papers and boards pasted to coloring book ·  Accession ID  2020.28.31

The image shows an abstract composition of vertical and diagonal lines and shapes against a textured background. In the foreground, there are dark elongated brushstrokes connected by softer, rounded shapes. These suggest figures enclosed within a wooden frame made of overlapping planks. The painted elements resemble an abstract portrayal of a group of people with halos or circular elements above some heads.
Purvis Young, Saints, late 1970s, various paints, clear acetate, and wood lathe on laminated paperboard, Patrons' Permanent Fund and Gift of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, 2020.28.30

Saints

Purvis Young · late 1970s · various paints, clear acetate, and wood lathe on laminated paperboard ·  Accession ID  2020.28.30

The image shows dark, sinuous lines and shapes against a pinkish, textured background. The abstract composition suggests twisted trees or figures in motion. The undulating lines create a sense of movement and depth. The piece evokes familiar images of figures silhouetted against a sunset or rugged contours of rocky formations.
Purvis Young, Family, c. 1980, paint on cardboard, Patrons' Permanent Fund and Gift of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, 2020.28.29

Family

Purvis Young · c. 1980 · paint on cardboard ·  Accession ID  2020.28.29

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Untitled (Protesters)

Purvis Young · ca. 1980-1999 · paint on wood ·  Accession ID  2024.61.2

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Untitled (Faces)

Purvis Young · ca. 1980-1999 · paint on wood and fiberboard ·  Accession ID  2024.61.1

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Bibliography

2000

  • Arnett, Paul, and William Arnett. Souls grown deep : African American vernacular art of the South. 2 vols. Atlanta, 2000-2001.