DC Space Series, 1977-1979
DC Space Series, 1977–1979
Having returned to Washington, D.C. in 1977, Isham continued her explorations of chromatic airbrush work in mottled coloration—soft, cumulous cloud-like forms that populate a revived tondo format as well as the traditional rectangle. Deploying the word “space” in the title of the series, Isham evokes the sense of skyscape as well as the further reaches of metaphysical phenomena. As chromatic atmospheres, these works affect the viewer as other worldly, gossamer webs that evoke insubstantiality and what seems Isham’s drive to dematerialize the surface.
#150 DC Space — Tiger Cry, 1978. Acrylic on canvas, 54 7/8 x 74 7/8 (139.4 x 190.2 cm). Estate of Sheila Isham, New York. Image courtesy of Hollis Taggart Gallery, New York.
A Lifeless Wave, 1978. Acrylic on canvas, 58 in. (147.3 cm) (diameter). Estate of Sheila Isham, New York. Image courtesy of Hollis Taggart Gallery, New York.
#114 Tranquil Command, 1978. Acrylic on canvas, 81 ½ in. (207 cm) (diameter). Estate of Sheila Isham, New York
Pierce Blue — Place Blue, 1978. Acrylic on canvas, 54 1/4 in. (137.8 cm) (diameter). Estate of Sheila Isham, New York. Image courtesy of Hollis Taggart Gallery, New York.