Provenance: A gift from the artist to the aunt of the present owner

ABOUT THE WORK

Transitioning into the 1950s, Ossorio underwent a shift from his Surrealist inclinations to an approach aligned with Abstract Expressionism. This phase saw him experimenting with various paint mediums, such as oil and enamel, to achieve his desired visual effects. Ossorio's compositions during this period bore vigorous, assertive brushstrokes, distinguishing them from Pollock's more spontaneous creations. Notably, Ossorio's work retained an underlying thread of cohesion amid its chaotic demeanor, a harmonious familiarity amidst the abstract. In contrast to Pollock's dynamic, immediate pieces, Ossorio's abstractions embodied a calculated and nuanced disposition. A striking embodiment of Ossorio's artistic evolution is evident in his 1967 creation. This piece signifies his departure from pure Abstract Expressionism to his later style, referred to by the artist as "Congregations." This later approach incorporated assemblages of diverse objects within the artworks, striving to portray the intricate world's uniqueness and complexity. The watercolor work under scrutiny amalgamates elements from both of Ossorio's artistic periods. Its powerful, audacious brushwork pays homage to his earlier Abstract Expressionist influences, while the assortment of diverse elements mirrors the object-oriented essence of his "Congregations. Across his varied styles, Ossorio's intricate and multifaceted piece reveals a deep-seated artistic philosophy that embraces complexity and nuance. (Jed Daya)