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Norman Zammitt, Californian Modernist, Had His Eye to the Sky

In the sprawling chaos of Los Angeles, where mismatched buildings and crumbling curbs are the norm, one artist found solace and inspiration in the city’s skies. Norman Zammitt, a Californian Modernist, turned his gaze upwards, captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of the ombres and colors that adorned the horizon. While he may be lesser known than his peers in the Light and Space movement, a recent survey exhibition at the Palm Springs Art Museum is shining a spotlight on Zammitt’s stunning chromatic investigations. Born in Toronto in 1931, Zammitt spent his formative years in Southern California, experimenting with minimalistic sculptures before finding his true calling as a painter. His signature style of horizontal bands of acrylic color creates a mesmerizing visual experience that shifts subtly from sickly to sublime. With this exhibition, Zammitt finally receives the recognition he deserves, as visitors are invited on a glorious tour through his artistic journey.

Norman Zammitt, Californian Modernist, Had His Eye to the Sky

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Norman Zammitt, a Californian modernist artist whose work has often flown under the radar. In this comprehensive article, we will explore Zammitt’s artistic background, the Light and Space movement that he was a part of, his unique chromatic investigations, his survey exhibition at the Palm Springs Art Museum, and his impact on the art world. By the end, you’ll have a deep understanding of Zammitt’s contributions to the art world and why his work deserves recognition.

Norman Zammitt’s Artistic Background

Zammitt’s early life in Toronto

Norman Zammitt was born in 1931 in Toronto, Canada. His early life in Toronto shaped his artistic sensibilities and laid the foundation for his later work. Growing up surrounded by diverse cultures and art influences, Zammitt developed a keen interest in art from a young age.

His move to Southern California

As a teenager, Zammitt made the life-changing decision to move to Southern California. This move allowed him to immerse himself in the vibrant art scene of the region and connect with like-minded artists who would eventually become his contemporaries.

His experimentation with minimalist sculptures

During the 1960s, Zammitt experimented with creating minimalist sculptures using acrylic resin and plexiglass. This period of exploration allowed him to refine his artistic techniques and develop his own unique style.

His signature style of painting

It was in the following decade that Zammitt truly found his artistic voice. He began creating paintings on canvas that featured horizontal bands of acrylic color. These bands would gradually shift in shades, creating a mesmerizing visual effect. This became Zammitt’s signature style and the hallmark of his artistic expression.

Norman Zammitt, Californian Modernist, Had His Eye to the Sky

The Light and Space Movement

Overview of the Light and Space movement

The Light and Space movement emerged in the 1960s in Southern California. It was characterized by artists who sought to explore the perception of light, space, and materials in their artwork. Zammitt was an integral part of this movement, although he is not as well-known as some of his peers.

Connection to the aerospace industry

One unique aspect of the Light and Space movement was its connection to the local aerospace industry. Many of the artists in this movement drew inspiration from the technological advancements and materials developed by the aerospace industry. This influence can be seen in Zammitt’s choice of industrial materials and his innovative use of new media.

Preference for new media and industrial materials

In line with the movement’s ethos, Zammitt embraced new media and industrial materials in his artwork. He moved away from traditional paint on canvas and instead utilized poured resin, ground glass, lacquers, and microfilm coatings. This experimental approach allowed him to create artwork that pushed the boundaries of what is traditionally considered art.

Zammitt’s Chromatic Investigations

Description of Zammitt’s chromatic investigations

Zammitt’s chromatic investigations were at the heart of his artistic practice. He was fascinated by the interplay of colors and how they could evoke different emotions and sensations in the viewer. His exploration of color became a central theme in his artwork.

Horizontal bands of acrylic color

A defining feature of Zammitt’s chromatic investigations was his use of horizontal bands of acrylic color. These bands would span across the canvas, gradually shifting in shades. By layering these bands, Zammitt created a sense of movement and depth in his artwork, inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in the experience.

Shades ranging from sickly to sublime

Zammitt’s choice of colors was deliberate and carefully crafted. His paintings would often feature a range of shades, from sickly and muted colors to vibrant and sublime tones. This juxtaposition of colors added an element of intrigue and mystery to his artwork, leaving the viewer captivated and intrigued.

Norman Zammitt, Californian Modernist, Had His Eye to the Sky

Survey Exhibition at the Palm Springs Art Museum

Details of the exhibition

To showcase Zammitt’s incredible body of work, the Palm Springs Art Museum curated a survey exhibition of his artwork. This exhibition allowed visitors to immerse themselves in Zammitt’s unique artistic world and gain a deeper understanding of his contributions to the art world.

Visitors’ experience of Zammitt’s art

Visitors to the exhibition were treated to a feast for the senses. Zammitt’s vibrant and captivating artwork drew viewers in and transported them to a world of color and light. The immersive nature of his paintings allowed visitors to engage with the artwork on a personal level, evoking emotional responses and leaving a lasting impression.

Highlighting the painting ‘Caly-forny-ay’

One particular painting that stood out in the exhibition was ‘Caly-forny-ay.’ This large-scale work captivated viewers with its dynamic use of color and the way it played with light and space. ‘Caly-forny-ay’ became the centerpiece of the exhibition, showcasing Zammitt’s mastery of his craft.

Zammitt’s Inspirations from the Skies

Los Angeles’ aesthetic imperfections

Los Angeles, despite its aesthetic imperfections, provided a unique inspiration for Zammitt and many other artists. The city’s haphazard architecture and tectonic landscape served as a backdrop against which Zammitt’s artwork thrived. The juxtaposition of urban chaos and natural beauty offered a wellspring of inspiration.

The beauty of Los Angeles’ skies

Amidst the urban chaos, the skies of Los Angeles presented a breathtaking sight. The ombres of color that painted the horizon fascinated Zammitt and became a recurring theme in his artwork. The ever-changing colors, even outside the famed golden hour, inspired Zammitt to capture the ethereal quality of the sky in his paintings.

Influence on Zammitt and other artists

Zammitt’s fascination with the skies of Los Angeles influenced not only his own artwork but also that of his fellow artists. The play of light and color in the sky became a shared exploration for many artists in the region, solidifying the connection between art and the natural environment.

Norman Zammitt, Californian Modernist, Had His Eye to the Sky

Recognition and Legacy

Zammitt’s relatively lesser-known status

Despite his significant contributions to the art world, Zammitt remains relatively lesser-known compared to his peers in the Light and Space movement. This lack of recognition during his lifetime has been a common occurrence for many artists whose work challenges traditional artistic boundaries.

Posthumous recognition of his art

Since his passing in 2007, Zammitt’s art has started to gain the recognition it deserves. Curators and art critics have increasingly highlighted his unique approach to color and his contribution to the Light and Space movement. This posthumous recognition has shed light on the brilliance of his artistry and solidified his place in art history.

Legacy within the Light and Space movement

Zammitt’s legacy within the Light and Space movement is undeniable. His innovative use of materials and exploration of color continue to inspire contemporary artists to this day. By pushing the boundaries of art and challenging traditional notions of painting, Zammitt has left an indelible mark on the art world.

Reflections on Zammitt’s Art

Critics’ perspectives on Zammitt’s work

Art critics have lauded Zammitt’s artwork for its visual impact and innovative use of color. They have praised his ability to create an immersive experience for the viewer, drawing them into a world of abstract beauty. Zammitt’s artwork has been described as mysterious, haunting, and captivating, leaving a lasting impression on those who encounter it.

Analysis of his artistic techniques

Zammitt’s artistic techniques have been subject to analysis and scrutiny by art scholars and critics. They have explored his meticulous layering of colors, his choice of industrial materials, and the way he manipulates light and space in his artwork. Zammitt’s techniques demonstrate his deep understanding of color theory and his willingness to experiment with unconventional materials.

Impact of his color choices

One aspect of Zammitt’s artwork that stands out is his deliberate and calculated color choices. His use of sickly and sublime shades creates a tension within his paintings, evoking emotional responses from viewers. Zammitt’s color choices have a profound impact on the overall mood and atmosphere of his artwork, adding depth and complexity to his compositions.

Norman Zammitt, Californian Modernist, Had His Eye to the Sky

Zammitt’s Impact on the Art World

Influence on contemporary artists

Zammitt’s unique approach to art and his contributions to the Light and Space movement continue to influence contemporary artists. His use of industrial materials, unconventional techniques, and exploration of color have inspired a new generation of artists to push the boundaries of traditional art and embrace new possibilities.

Continuation of his legacy in modern art

Zammitt’s legacy lives on in the world of modern art. Artists who draw inspiration from his techniques and ideas carry his influence forward, creating artwork that challenges traditional notions of painting and engages viewers in new and innovative ways. Zammitt’s innovative spirit and willingness to experiment continue to shape the direction of contemporary art.

Relevance of his artistic ideas today

In an ever-evolving art world, Zammitt’s artistic ideas remain relevant and resonant. His exploration of color, light, and space continues to captivate viewers and push the boundaries of artistic expression. By embracing unconventional materials and techniques, Zammitt offers a fresh perspective that challenges the status quo and encourages artists to think outside the box.

Conclusion

Norman Zammitt, a Californian modernist artist, had a unique artistic vision that brought color to life. His chromatic investigations and innovative use of materials set him apart from his peers in the Light and Space movement. Although his recognition came posthumously, Zammitt’s contributions to the art world and his legacy within the Light and Space movement are undeniable. His work continues to inspire contemporary artists and challenge traditional notions of art. Through his exploration of color, Zammitt invites us to see the world in a new light and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.