Asheville, North Carolina, August 10, 2025
News Summary
Kenneth Noland, an abstract artist from Asheville, played a pivotal role in the Color Field movement during the 1950s and 1960s. His innovative work gained recognition globally, and he designed a unique mausoleum in his hometown. Noland’s approach to color and form has left an enduring legacy, preserved in various art collections and celebrated even in his final resting place.
Asheville, North Carolina — Kenneth Noland, a prominent abstract artist who profoundly impacted the art world, was born in Asheville on April 10, 1924. An influential member of the Color Field movement, Noland’s innovative techniques and distinctive style sought to push the boundaries of abstract art during the 1950s and 1960s. Following his passing in 2010, his legacy is not only preserved in prominent art collections globally but also in the unique mausoleum he designed, which now stands in Riverside Cemetery.
Noland’s journey into the art world began after serving in the U.S. Air Force during World War II. With the help of the G.I. Bill, he attended Black Mountain College, where he was significantly influenced by artists such as Josef Albers and Ilya Bolotowsky. After studying under these notable figures, he pursued further studies in sculpture in Paris, where he was mentored by renowned sculptor Ossip Zadkine.
By the late 1950s, Noland had emerged as a leading figure in the Color Field movement, known for his paintings that featured pure, saturated colors achieved through techniques like staining the canvas with thinned paints. His evolving style was marked by concentric rings and geometric parallels tailored to fit the canvas, a significant shift that showcased his artistic curiosity and exploration of form and color.
Noland’s work gained recognition when he participated in the influential “Post-Painterly Abstraction” exhibition curated by Clement Greenberg in 1964. A retrospective held at the Guggenheim Museum in 1977 further solidified his standing in the art community, showcasing his contributions to modern art and his innovative approaches. Today, his pieces are part of esteemed collections at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Tate, and the Whitney Museum, reflecting his widespread and enduring influence in the art world.
In 1995, Noland received the North Carolina Award for Fine Arts, an acknowledgment of his roots and contributions to the state he cherished. He spent his later years in Maine until his death from kidney cancer in 2010 at the age of 85. In a testament to his love for his hometown, his ashes were returned to Asheville, where they now rest in a mausoleum he designed before his passing.
The Noland Mausoleum, constructed in 2007, is located in Riverside Cemetery and represents the first walk-in mausoleum installed in the site in 90 years. The structure is a distinctive 12 feet square granite monument weighing 59,000 pounds, reflecting his artistic vision even in death. Its remarkable features include two lifelike plastic deer positioned in front of the mausoleum. While the deer were recently damaged by remnants of Hurricane Helene in September 2024, their presence remains a curious tribute to Noland’s love for visual surprises and juxtaposition.
Overall, the Noland Mausoleum embodies Noland’s legacy, merging structure, art, and whimsy, and serves as a continuance of his exploration of color, contrast, and curiosity in both life and death. His pre-planned memorial indicates a thoughtful approach to his final resting place, completed in contemplation with his wife, Paige Rense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Kenneth Noland?
Kenneth Noland was a renowned abstract artist from Asheville, North Carolina, known for his significant contributions to the Color Field movement.
What is the Color Field movement?
The Color Field movement is characterized by the use of large expanses of color and abstract forms, focusing on the emotional power of color in art.
What are some key influences on Noland’s work?
Noland was influenced by artists such as Josef Albers and Ilya Bolotowsky during his time at Black Mountain College, and Ossip Zadkine while studying sculpture in Paris.
Where is the Noland Mausoleum located?
The Noland Mausoleum is located in Riverside Cemetery in Asheville, North Carolina.
What are some unique features of the Noland Mausoleum?
The mausoleum is a 12 feet square granite structure with two lifelike plastic deer in front, symbolizing Noland’s whimsical artistic nature.
Key Features of Kenneth Noland
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | April 10, 1924 |
| Major Influences | Josef Albers, Ilya Bolotowsky, Ossip Zadkine |
| Art Movement | Color Field movement |
| Mausoleum Location | Riverside Cemetery, Asheville, NC |
| Mausoleum Construction Year | 2007 |
| Mausoleum Size | 12 feet square |
| Weight of Mausoleum | 59,000 pounds |
| Awards | North Carolina Award for Fine Arts (1995) |
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Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: Kenneth Noland
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kenneth Noland
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- Google Search: Kenneth Noland
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
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