Arena, Elaine de Kooning (1918–1989)

This dramatic composition by Abstract Expressionist Elaine de Kooning demonstrates her use of abstract forms, strong color, and vivid brushstrokes. While teaching in New Mexico in the 1950s, de Kooning made trips to Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, to watch bullfights at the Plaza Monumental. The paintings she made in response conjure the chaos and violence of the events in which bull and human meet. Using abstract forms and bold gestures of color, the artist reflects on the power struggle between human and animal.