What characterizes color field painting?

Color field painting is characterized by the use of solid areas of color that extend to the edges of the canvas. This movement emerged in the 1950s and is associated with artists who sought to create large expanses of color in a flat application, emphasizing the purity of the color itself rather than complex forms or images. The artists aimed to evoke emotions and feelings through these bold and unmodulated fields of color, creating an immersive experience for the viewer without the distraction of representational imagery.

The focus on color as the primary means of expression is what distinctly sets color field painting apart from other movements that may involve deeper blending, representational elements, or mixed media techniques. This emphasis on color as a segregated and dominant feature creates a sense of visual harmony and simplicity that is a hallmark of color field works.