Leon Polk Smith (American, 1906–1996). <em>Lobster Red</em>, 1984. Acrylic on canvas with wood, 89 x 49 1/2 in. Brooklyn Museum, Bequest of Leon Polk Smith, 2011.12.11. © artist or artist's estate (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 2011.12.11_PS11.jpg)

Leon Polk Smith (American, 1906–1996). Lobster Red, 1984. Acrylic on canvas with wood, 89 x 49 1/2 in. Brooklyn Museum, Bequest of Leon Polk Smith, 2011.12.11. © artist or artist's estate (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 2011.12.11_PS11.jpg)

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Did Smith start in figurative and then go abstract?

Leon Polk Smith is predominantly known for his abstract works and cites artists like Piet Mondrian, Constatin Brancusi, and Hans Arp as inspiration. He did, however, receive a traditional art education at Columbia University so we can assume he also made many figurative works at least during that time.

Lobster Red

Leon Polk Smith

Contemporary Art

ARTIST Leon Polk Smith, American, 1906–1996

MEDIUM Acrylic on canvas with wood

DATES 1984

DIMENSIONS 89 x 49 1/2 in. (show scale)

COLLECTIONS Contemporary Art

ACCESSION NUMBER 2011.12.11

CREDIT LINE Bequest of Leon Polk Smith

EXHIBITIONS

MUSEUM LOCATION This item is not on view

CAPTION Leon Polk Smith (American, 1906–1996). Lobster Red, 1984. Acrylic on canvas with wood, 89 x 49 1/2 in. Brooklyn Museum, Bequest of Leon Polk Smith, 2011.12.11. © artist or artist's estate (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 2011.12.11_PS11.jpg)

IMAGE overall, 2011.12.11_PS11.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2020

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Download our app and ask your own questions during your visit. Here are some that others have asked.

Did Smith start in figurative and then go abstract?