Bidspirit auction | Frank Stella ”The Funeral (Dome)”

Frank Stella ”The Funeral (Dome)” Proof Print 1992 - Frank Stella (American, 1936-2024). Etching with aquatint, engraving, and relief on handmade shaped TGL paper titled ”The Funeral Dome, ” 1992, from the series ”Moby Dick Domes.” Pencil signed, editioned P.P. II, and dated along the lower right. Published by Tyler Graphics, Ltd., Mount Kisco, NY. From an edition of 23 plus six artist's proofs. Literature: Axsom 208. Lot Essay: By the age of 25, Stella was already being recognized for his talents, being included in ”Three Young Americans” at the Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin College as well as ”Sixteen Americans” at the Museum of Modern Art in New York all before 1960. By 1961, he had moved on from illusionistic space to flat and often irregular shapes, which would become his artistic signature. His works became increasingly minimalistic during this time, though he would extend into three-dimensional space in the 1970s and 80s, which he would self-describe as maximalist. In addition to numerous solo and group exhibitions throughout the world, his works are held in the collections of prestigious institutions such as the Hirshhorn Museum, the Whitney, the Toledo Museum of Art, LACMA, the Guggenheim, MoMA, and many others. In 2009, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Barack Obama. Remarked as one of the most technically challenging printmaking projects that Stella ever undertook, the ”Moby Dick Domes” series represents a collaborative endeavour that pushed the limits of printmaking. Beginning in 1986, Stella collaborated with master printer Kenneth Tyler in creating three-dimensional concave paper works composed of unpressed paper pulp pieces provided by Tyler. Working alongside contemporary artists, printers, and paper consultants, the team worked tirelessly to make their artistic dream a reality; the process was elaborate, taxing, and time-consuming. Culminating in the creation of nine unique prints, the groundbreaking project came to a close in 1992. (Sheet) height: 72 1/2 in x with: 54 in. (Frame) height: 77 in x width: 59 in x depth: 10 1/4 in. Condition: There are no visible tears, losses, or restorations. The colors are bold and bright. The work is floated in frame on a non-acidic backing. Framed in a plexiglass housing. Due to the nature of the artwork and the framing, this work will not be inspected out of frame.