Untitled

In 1957 after his experiments in serigraphy and ink drawing, Gaitonde moved into a period of pure abstraction. This form of abstraction and his ability to transform a canvas into abstract 'light fields' of color has led to comparisons with the American artist Mark Rothko. (Neville Tuli, The Flamed Mosaic: Indian Contemporary Painting, Ahmedabad, 1997, p. 212.) However, Gaitonde has developed a technique of applying paint that is unique. Characteristic of his work is the use of a palette knife to create a textured surface. Texture is applied with the full knowledge of the function that it fulfills in the overall interaction of light and color on the surface of a canvas. In this particular work, Gaitonde's use of a broad horizontal band of black paint, energized by the deceptively controlled scoring of pigment, shatters the monochromatic grey backdrop whilst simultaneously instilling the work with a 'subliminal depth and meditative calmness.' (Indian Contemporary Art Post Independence, New Delhi, 1997, p.134.)