Speaker 4 - Prof. Jonathan Katz

A symposium exploring the works of Agnes Martin. Four leading scholars present new research and lead discussion around Martin’s work. Speakers will explore new directions in its interpretation, including a consideration of the part her lesbian sexuality may be seen to play in her particular development of abstraction, and an examination of her links to other women artists of the time. Without objects or forms, Agnes Martin suggested we approach her paintings 'as you would cross an empty beach to look at the ocean.' Often linked to Minimalism, she maintained that her paintings are concerned with the inner emotional world - our search for a perfection which is impossible to achieve - and the desire for contentment and serenity.