Circus Abstraction

c. 1950

John Marin

Associated Names
John Marin

Artist, American, 1870 - 1953

The image features lines and shapes intersecting at various angles. Long straight lines and shorter ones create a fragmented city skyline effect. Curved lines and swirls add a sense of movement, while clustered shapes and scattered dots give the impression of figures and stars. The line thickness varies to enhance the dynamic quality of the piece.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    black chalk and graphite on wove paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of John Marin, Jr.

  • Dimensions

    overall: 22.6 x 30.1 cm (8 7/8 x 11 7/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1986.54.163.m

  • Series Title

    Marin Sketchbook

Associated Artworks

See all 19 artworks

Marin Sketchbook

John Marin

1945

The image shows loosely drawn black and grey lines crossing the page, creating dynamic movement. Splashes of blue, red, and green are scattered across the drawing. Vaguely suggested forms include horses and figures riding them. Smudged and layered pencil marks might represent background mountains or structures. Bright red patches could evoke flags or attire, while pink and green hint at the natural environment.

Circus Scene

John Marin

1945

Circus Scene

John Marin

1945

Artwork history & notes

Inscriptions

lower left verso in graphite: 34-17

Wikidata ID

Q64583097

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