Vivian Springford American, 1913-2003

Vivian Springford (b. 1913, Milwaukee, WI; d. 2003) is celebrated for her abstract works, which displayed a confidence in movement and responsiveness to material that produced captivating visuals. Initially, her works derived inspiration from exposure to East Asian literature, artwork, and philosophy. East Asian influence manifested in her practice through stark black, confident marks that referenced traditional Chinese calligraphical imagery. Her works maintained a keen attention to color and kinetic quality with her increased incorporation of drips, quick strokes, and dynamic color pairings. Her innovative approach to applying thinned acrylic layers on canvas alongside her active mark making and acceptance of the unpremeditated resulted in an emotive image. Springford’s vast inquiries into the universe simultaneously reflect the evolution of the abstract expressionist movement.   

Springford's artistic journey began at the esteemed Art Students League in New York, NY. There, she honed her skills under the tutelage of painters Robert Brackman and Jon Corbino. Her works have been exhibited in numerous prestigious galleries and museums across the United States and internationally, with notable exhibition venues include the Almine Rech Gallery in Gstaad, Switzerland; the Great Jones Gallery in New York, NY; the Preston Gallery in New York, NY; the Brooklyn Museum in Brooklyn, NY; Gary Snyder Fine Art in New York, NY; and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA.   

Following her passing in 2003, her works are present in the permanent collections of numerous private and public institutions, including the Guggenheim, New York, NY, and the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, MA.