Poetry Paintings

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We were thrilled to recently place Mary Abbott and Barbara Guest’s Medallion into the collection of one of our clients. The important work tells the story of two groundbreaking, creative women whose mutual respect and trust yielded some of the most successful work of both of their careers.

Abstract Expressionist Mary Abbott and poet Barbara Guest collaborated on series of “Poetry Paintings” in the late 1950s. Their project was indicative of others at the time – like-minded creatives from different fields worked together to create something bigger than themselves. Abbott said that through her painting she strived to “define the poetry of living space.” Guest said, “The poet wishes to align the contents of the poem with the vision which directs it.” It is no wonder that their imagery and words work so well together

Featured artwork: Mary Abbott (American, 1921 – 2019), Medallion, late 1950s. A collaborative work with Barbara Guest. Mixed media on paper, 24 x 18 inches. Private collection. Mary Abbott (American, 1921 – 2019), Candid as the wave-lined Shell, late 1950s. A collaborative work with Barbara Guest. Oil stick, gouache and cut paper collage on paper, 49 x 75.5 inches. Estate of Mary Lee Abbott Clyde.

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