Julie Mehretu: Mapping the Abstract
The Cartographer of Chaos
Born in Ethiopia (1970) and based in New York, Julie Mehretu creates monumental abstract paintings that layer architectural drawings with gestural marks. Her works like A Love Supreme (2014-2018) transform urban planning maps into dynamic visual symphonies.
Key Works
- Dimensions: 90 × 180 in
- Medium: Ink and acrylic on canvas
- Style: Abstract cartography meets jazz improvisation
- Impact: Named after John Coltrane's album, this work translates musical structure into visual form
Artistic Evolution
- Early Period: Architectural drawings as foundation
- Mid-Career: Incorporation of news imagery and data
- Recent Works: Explosive color fields overlaid with precise marks
Current Relevance
Mehretu's work has been featured in major exhibitions worldwide, including recent shows at the Whitney Museum and the Guggenheim. Her paintings sell for millions, cementing her status as a leading contemporary voice.