Mark Tobey

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Mark Tobey (December 11, 1890 – April 24, 1976) was an American painter, best known for his densely structured abstract paintings, often inspired by calligraphy and Asian art. He was a prominent figure in the Northwest School of artists, which included Morris Graves, Kenneth Callahan, and Guy Anderson.

Early Life and Education

Mark Tobey was born in Centerville, Wisconsin. He showed an early interest in art and moved to Chicago in 1911 to study at the Art Institute of Chicago. During his time in Chicago, Tobey worked as a fashion illustrator and portrait artist.

Career

In 1922, Tobey moved to New York City, where he became involved with the Baha'i Faith. His conversion to the Baha'i Faith had a profound influence on his work, leading him to explore themes of unity and spirituality. Tobey's interest in Asian art and calligraphy began in the 1930s, when he traveled to China and Japan. These experiences significantly influenced his artistic style, leading to the development of his signature "white writing" technique.

White Writing

Tobey's "white writing" technique involved intricate, lace-like patterns of white lines over darker backgrounds. This style is often compared to Jackson Pollock's drip painting but is distinct in its use of calligraphic elements and its focus on spiritual themes. Tobey's work in this style is considered a precursor to Abstract Expressionism.

Later Years

In the 1950s, Tobey's work gained international recognition. He exhibited at the Venice Biennale in 1958, where he won the International Grand Prize for Painting. Tobey continued to work and exhibit his art until his death in Basel, Switzerland, in 1976.

Legacy

Mark Tobey's work has had a lasting impact on the development of abstract art in the United States. His integration of Eastern and Western artistic traditions helped pave the way for future generations of artists. Tobey's paintings are held in major collections, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, the Tate Gallery in London, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Selected Works

• Broadway (1936)
• Edge of August (1953)
• Canticle (1954)
• Space Intangibles (1958)

See Also

• Abstract Expressionism
• Northwest School (art)
• Jackson Pollock
• Baha'i Faith