Phenomena (Abstract Composition)
Watercolor or acrylic on heavy wove paper • Paul Jenkins (American, 1923–2012)
Style & Movement
Abstract Expressionism / Lyrical Abstraction / Color Field Painting
Medium & Technique
Watercolor or acrylic wash using pouring techniques and an ivory knife to guide fluid pigment on unprimed paper
Creation Period
Circa 1970s-1980s
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 30 x 22 inches (vertical portrait format)
Subject Description
Non-representational abstract composition featuring luminous, translucent flows of color including yellow, green, purple, red, and deep blue cascading inward and downward, creating a prismatic, soaring central form characteristic of Jenkins' signature 'Phenomena' series.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The colors remain vibrant and the paper appears stable within the current frame, though not examined out of the frame.
Estimated Market Value
$8,000 - $15,000
Auction Estimate
$6,000 - $12,000
Provenance History
Private collection, acquired from a gallery or directly associated with the artist's output during his active mid-to-late career.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of Paul Jenkins' mature style where he abandoned traditional brushes entirely to direct fluid acrylics and watercolors, establishing his international reputation within the New York School and European abstraction.
Notable Features
Signature visible in the lower central dark area; characteristically delicate bleeding edges where the fluid medium meets the absorbent unprimed paper.
Condition Issues
Possible minor light exposure over time; potential acid migration from backing materials if not museum-grade.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure archival, acid-free matting and framing with UV-filtering acrylic to prevent future fading of fugitive pigments.
Collector Notes
Paul Jenkins- artist