Adolph Gottlieb

One of the original Abstract Expressionist artists, Adolph Gottlieb was part of many artists’ groups and associations, some formal and some not. From 1946 to 1956 Gottlieb spent his summers in Provincetown where he could divide his days between his two great passions – art and sailing. Gottlieb’s practice was to spend mornings in the studio and afternoons on the water. Evenings were spent with friends and colleagues, including Robert Motherwell, Hans Hoffman, Karl Knaths, Weldon Kees and many more.

During his time in Provincetown Gottlieb worked almost exclusively on paper and a few small oils. His studio was too small for large paintings, and the focus on smaller work was part of his summer routine.  The works he created in Provincetown extend from his Pictographs of the 1940s through to the beginnings of what would become his Burst paintings in 1956. Some of the major transitions in his art took place in the studio on Commercial Street, including his plans for the stained glass façade of the Steinberg Center in New York City and an incredibly creative period in 1956 that was part of a major transition year for him.

On view through October 21 at the Provincetown Art Association and Museum Adolph Gottlieb in Provincetown features 28 paintings that represent the artist’s major works, most of which were created in the artist's harborside studio on Commercial Street.

For more information, visit the Provincetown Art Association and Museum's (opens in a new window) website.