Tabula Jaune 1975

The 1975 "Tabula Jaune" screen print by Simon Hantaï is a striking example of his pioneering technique and his deeply philosophical approach to abstraction. Created during a period when Hantaï’s work was gaining international recognition, "Tabula Jaune" is part of his renowned "Tabula" series, which marked a key stage in his exploration of color, form, and the possibilities of chance in artistic creation. This piece showcases his signature "pliage" (folding) technique, which he developed in the early 1960s and continued to refine throughout his career.

In "Tabula Jaune," Hantaï used the folding method to achieve a dynamic, organic structure on the canvas. This process involved folding the canvas, painting over the exposed areas, and then unfolding it to reveal a complex pattern of shapes and negative spaces. The yellow tones in this piece create a bright, energetic composition that draws the viewer in, with patterns that appear both structured and spontaneous. The folding and painting technique allowed Hantaï to embrace the role of chance, letting the canvas dictate part of the form and outcome, leading to a collaboration between the artist and the medium itself.

Hantaï’s "Tabula" works are known for their balance of order and disorder, reflecting his interest in philosophy and spirituality. By incorporating randomness into the creative process, Hantaï explored themes of control and surrender, questioning the boundaries between deliberate creation and the unpredictable. The "Tabula Jaune" piece, with its warm, expansive color, exudes a sense of energy and openness, encouraging viewers to see both the individual forms and the overall unity of the work.

This artwork is a testament to Hantaï’s commitment to pushing the limits of abstract expression. His approach was both innovative and introspective, engaging deeply with the idea of the artist’s role in the creative process. By choosing to embrace the inherent unpredictability of his methods, Hantaï forged a path that set his work apart from other abstract artists of his time. The "Tabula" series, and especially "Tabula Jaune," embodies this spirit of experimentation and philosophical inquiry, making it a significant piece in Hantaï’s oeuvre and a powerful example of abstract art’s potential to reflect complex ideas through form and color.

Simon Hantaï’s "Tabula Jaune" remains a celebrated work, representing his unique contribution to postwar abstraction and his distinctive approach to material and technique. Through this piece, Hantaï invites viewers to look beyond the surface and consider the underlying processes and concepts, elevating the act of viewing into a contemplative experience.

Original Screenprint

Tachism - Surrealism

Very good condition