

Red Twelve
1965
Twelve circles in varying shades of red, burgundy, brown, and coral are arranged in a regular grid across a cream colored parallelogram field. The composition demonstrates a systematic approach to color relationships, with each circle subtly differentiated in hue and saturation while maintaining consistent scale. Created with acrylic and graphite on canvas, the work exemplifies the color field painting and hard edge abstraction movements of the 1960s, emphasizing pure chromatic interaction over representation. Downing's practice engaged with serial arrangements and optical perception, investigating how viewers apprehend color relationships within structured formats.
- Medium
- acrylic and graphite on canvas
- Overall
- Spotted At
- Auction House · Rago Auctions
Notes
Pure Edge: American Geometric Abstraction (Selected Works from MACBA Buenos Aires), Rago Auctions, 2026-05-01. Lot 108. Signed, titled, and dated to verso 'Downing 1965 - Red Twelve'.
🔨 Auction Lot
Pure Edge: American Geometric Abstraction (Selected Works from MACBA Buenos Aires)
May 1, 2026
Estimate: $30,000 – $50,000
Lot 108
For Sale
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