Sean Scully is part of a long lineage of abstract artists who have investigated the conceptual properties of the stripe and its compositional strength in painting. This pastel on paper work exemplifies Scully's enquiry through its compounded layers of misty colour in irregular bands and a hazy red glow throughout. The work's title, 1.11.03, points to a specific date: the 11th January.
In this, Scully does not seek to reference a particular situation or day but instead to indicate something greater. He hopes to take viewers to previously unknown areas of feeling and perception', via this subtly described composition in pastel.
