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Adja Yunkers — Collage #66
Adja Yunkers

Collage #66

1972

Adja Yunkers' *Collage #66* from 1972 presents a compelling study in subtle abstraction and textural depth. Dominated by a sophisticated palette of warm earth tones, including various shades of brown, beige, and off-white, the canvas emanates a quiet, contemplative energy. The composition is structured by a strong horizontal demarcation near the bottom edge and nuanced vertical divisions, suggesting an architectural or landscape-like sensibility without explicit figuration. Despite its predominantly painterly appearance, the title explicitly points to integrated collage elements, which contribute significantly to the rich, layered surface. These elements, perhaps subtly embedded within or beneath the oil paint, enhance the tactile quality of the work, revealing Yunkers' masterful approach to mixed media. A luminous, almost ethereal white form emerges on the right side, drawing the eye and introducing a focal point of radiant light amidst the earthier hues. This element, coupled with the varied brushwork, creates a dynamic interplay of surface and depth. This work exemplifies Yunkers' mature exploration of abstract forms, a phase where he moved beyond earlier printmaking and more overt gestural abstraction to embrace a refined, almost minimalist aesthetic. His command of color and texture allows for a profound emotional resonance, inviting prolonged engagement with the canvas. The delicate balance between structured geometry and organic brushwork, alongside the interplay of light and shadow, imbues *Collage #66* with a timeless quality. It speaks to universal themes of presence and absence, solidity and ephemerality, through its understated yet powerful visual language. As a testament to Yunkers' ongoing innovation in the later stages of his distinguished career, *Collage #66* stands as a significant example of his contribution to post-war abstraction, offering collectors a work of profound aesthetic appeal and historical depth.

Medium
Oil and collage on canvas
Location
Wright, Chicago, United States

🔨 Auction Lot

Wright: 20|21 Art: The Chicago Edition (July 2022)

July 14, 2022

Estimate: $1,500 to $2,500

Lot 264

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About this work

Adja Yunkers, Collage #66, 1972

Adja Yunkers' *Collage #66* from 1972 presents a compelling study in subtle abstraction and textural depth. Dominated by a sophisticated palette of warm earth tones, including various shades of brown, beige, and off-white, the canvas emanates a quiet, contemplative energy. The composition is structured by a strong horizontal demarcation near the bottom edge and nuanced vertical divisions, suggesting an architectural or landscape-like sensibility without explicit figuration. Despite its predominantly painterly appearance, the title explicitly points to integrated collage elements, which contribute significantly to the rich, layered surface. These elements, perhaps subtly embedded within or beneath the oil paint, enhance the tactile quality of the work, revealing Yunkers' masterful approach to mixed media. A luminous, almost ethereal white form emerges on the right side, drawing the eye and introducing a focal point of radiant light amidst the earthier hues. This element, coupled with the varied brushwork, creates a dynamic interplay of surface and depth. This work exemplifies Yunkers' mature exploration of abstract forms, a phase where he moved beyond earlier printmaking and more overt gestural abstraction to embrace a refined, almost minimalist aesthetic. His command of color and texture allows for a profound emotional resonance, inviting prolonged engagement with the canvas. The delicate balance between structured geometry and organic brushwork, alongside the interplay of light and shadow, imbues *Collage #66* with a timeless quality. It speaks to universal themes of presence and absence, solidity and ephemerality, through its understated yet powerful visual language. As a testament to Yunkers' ongoing innovation in the later stages of his distinguished career, *Collage #66* stands as a significant example of his contribution to post-war abstraction, offering collectors a work of profound aesthetic appeal and historical depth.

Medium
Oil and collage on canvas
Year
1972
Seen at
Wright, Chicago, United States

Related themes

Textural Work, Contemplative, Minimalist, Male Artist, American, Architectural Forms, Modernist, Mid Century, Mixed Media, Collage, Oil On Canvas, Geometric Abstraction, Neutral Palette, Large Format, Warm Colors, Layered Surface, Light and Shadow, Earth Tones, Abstract, Horizontal Composition, Abstract Landscape

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