Martha Diamond, painter of the New York skyline, dies at 79. https://ift.tt/26CVExs

Martha Diamond, an influential artist known for her expressive depictions of New York City, passed away at 79 after a long-term illness. Her passing was confirmed by David Kordansky Gallery, which began representing the artist last September.

Diamond’s career, spanning six decades, was defined by a vibrant use of color and texture. Her works were notably characterized by their captivating portrayals of the New York City skyline. Diamond’s distinct visual language, poetry, and the materials she employed, positioned her as a prominent figure in the New York School’s art and poetry scenes.

Hudson Group (Detail), ca. 1982
Martha Diamond
David Kordansky Gallery

Born in New York in 1944, Diamond held a lifelong fascination for Manhattan’s skyline. Her approach to painting, while seemingly straightforward, was imbued with subtlety and depth, often requiring viewers to engage closely to appreciate the complexity and emotion within her canvases.

“When I first encountered Martha’s extraordinary work, I was instantly blown away by both the beauty of her paintings and the sense that this work was made in a particular space and time, encapsulating a lived history while expanding and abstracting an otherwise familiar visual lexicon,” said David Kordansky. “Beyond the striking visual elements and her command of color and texture, there is so much feeling emanating from the canvas. These are the stories and legacies that I have the privilege and duty to share and honor. Martha will be deeply missed.”

Diamond’s contributions to art have been recognized through various accolades, including fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts and an Academy Award for Art from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. Her work is featured in major museum collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Art Institute of Chicago.

David Kordansky Gallery will honor Diamond’s legacy with a solo exhibition at its Los Angeles gallery from March 23rd through April 27th. Additionally, a major survey of her work, “Martha Diamond: Deep Time,” will be presented at the Colby College Museum of Art and The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum beginning this July.

from Artsy News https://ift.tt/nwT0OBA