Color Numeral Series (ULAE 59-68)

The notion of the number motif in printmaking struck Johns as early as 1960 with the series of lithographs 0 Through 9 (1960-3). Later that decade with Gemini, Johns produced the consecutive numeric series on individual sheets in shades of black and gray. With the use of the same stones and plates, Johns created Color Numeral Series. Not only does the draftsmanship of each number stand on its own, even in the black and gray edition, but becomes more complex and ethereal with the addition of vibrant color. The methodical application of colors of the spectrum creates a new, secondary level of investigation. The pure beauty and emotion of the colors enhances the textural foundation that had previously been set. Johns use of color is deliberate -- the primary colors of red, yellow and blue are utilized first in Figure 0. The dynamics change with the addition of violet to Figure 1. By Figure 9, the completion of the series, Johns has included the secondary colors of violet, orange and green interspersed and independant of the original primaries. This creates a unity and fluidity most apparent when viewing the set as a whole.