Renowned artist Pat Steir’s latest series of paintings, currently on display at Hauser & Wirth’s West Hollywood gallery, is a mesmerizing exploration of the color blue. At 85 years old, Steir’s journey into this new color palette was sparked by a visit to an ophthalmologist who revealed she was colorblind to blue. This revelation led her to meticulously mix paints to create a range of blue hues that now adorn her monumental canvases.
One of the standout pieces in the series, “Painted Rain #3,” features a cascade of yellow and red bands against a vibrant turquoise backdrop, evoking the feeling of a sun shower. Another painting, “Painted Rain #5,” captures the essence of the Hudson River outside Steir’s studio, with deep jewel tones mingling with midnight blue strokes.
Despite facing mobility issues after an accident in 2019, Steir continues to create art with the help of a physical therapist. She now uses a scissor lift to reach the top of her canvases, where she unleashes her signature style of pouring and dripping paint.
In a candid interview, Steir shares insights into her creative process, childhood memories of painting, and the challenges she faced as a female artist in a male-dominated art world. She reflects on her evolution as an artist, from her early days painting waterfalls to her current exploration of the color blue.
Steir’s dedication to her craft and unwavering passion for art shine through in her captivating series, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world of color and emotion. As she continues to push boundaries and defy expectations, Pat Steir remains a true pioneer in the art world, inspiring generations of artists to come.
