Epilogue
Artist
Bernice Bing
(American, 1936 - 1998)
Date1990-1995
CultureAsian American, American, woman artist, queer artist, lesbin artist, activist artist, community organizer
MaterialsOil on canvas
DimensionsOverall: H. 72 in × W. 288 in × D. 1 1/2 in (182.9 cm × 731.5 cm × 3.8 cm)
Panel (Proper right panel): H. 72 in × W. 96 in (182.9 cm × 243.8 cm)
Panel (Center panel): H. 72 in × W. 96 in (182.9 cm × 243.8 cm)
Panel (Proper left panel): H. 72 in × W. 96 in (182.9 cm × 243.8 cm)
Panel (Proper right panel): H. 72 in × W. 96 in (182.9 cm × 243.8 cm)
Panel (Center panel): H. 72 in × W. 96 in (182.9 cm × 243.8 cm)
Panel (Proper left panel): H. 72 in × W. 96 in (182.9 cm × 243.8 cm)
Credit LineMuseum purchase, Mortimer-Harvey Fund
Object number2020.27a-c
DepartmentContemporary Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on viewThe title of Bing’s monumental Epilogue suggests that she envisioned it as a final commentary on the development of her work. Some abstract clusters evoke figurative forms while others recall calligraphic inspirations. The divided black panel might refer to her ongoing inquiry of spiritual and natural forces, representing the “gap” that both connects and divides. The work was painted during the period when the artist was suffering from Lupus and other illnesses that led to her death in 1998.
1940 - 1950
