In 1970 the Museum of Modern Art, New York presented a retrospective of 's work, making him the youngest artist at the time to receive such a distinction.
Stella began printmaking in 1967 - and it immediately became an essential part of his oeuvre.
The "Purple Series" is significant as, while it alludes to the success of his shaped canvases, the consistent use of the slightly muted grape-colored purple is unique and not mirrored in his paintings.
There were nine works in the "Purple Series" and each work bears the name of an individual in the New York art world that was important in Stella's life. This example entitled "Hollis Frampton" (1936-1984) was named after the important avant-garde artist and filmmaker, who was an early contributor to the nascent digital art field.
In terms of process the "Purple Series" is the second and the last group of prints to be created from lithographic stones. Like most of Stella's prints from the late 1960s and 1970s - these too can be found in the permanent collection of many institutions including the Met and the MoMA amongst many others.
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"Hollis Frampton" (from the Purple Series)
Signed, numbered, and dated 1972 by the artist
Published by Gemini G.E.L., Ltd., Los Angeles
From an edition of 100
Lithograph.
16"H 22"W (work)
20"H 26"W (framed)
Very good condition.