Graphics Suite #1

Jules Olitskis Graphics Suite #1 from 1970 is a color screenprint in mauve, blue, green, and yellow on ivory wove paper that demonstrates the artists mastery of the screenprint medium and his ability to translate the atmospheric chromatic effects of his Color Field paintings into the precise format of a multiple. The contrast between the soft edges of Olitskis sprayed paintings and the hard edges inherent to screenprint technique creates a productive tension that gives the Graphics Suite prints a specificity and visual authority different from but equal to that of his paintings. The mauve and blue color scheme, accented with green and yellow, exemplifies Olitskis approach to color as an atmospheric phenomenon rather than a local attribute, in which hues interact at their boundaries to produce optical effects that exist in the viewers perception rather than on the surface of the print.

Olitskis screenprints are significant contributions to the history of Color Field printmaking, demonstrating that atmospheric color effects could be achieved in a precise medium without loss of chromatic intensity. Graphics Suite #1 influenced the development of post-painterly printmaking and expanded the possibilities of color-based abstraction in print.

A 1970 color screenprint by Olitski in mauve/blue with green and yellow, translating the atmospheric chromatic effects of Color Field painting into the precise format of screenprint with productive tension between soft and hard edges.