Mark Tobey (1890–1976) was an American painter recognized for his intricate, calligraphic-style works that were deeply influenced by Asian philosophy, spirituality, and aesthetics. Born in Centerville, Wisconsin, Tobey would come to be associated with the mid-20th-century Abstract Expressionist movement, although his work stands distinct from the bold, broad brushstrokes typical of many of his contemporaries.
Tobey’s painting style is best described by his development of the “white writing” technique, characterized by a dense mesh of swirling, interconnected lines on a neutral background. This mesh resembles calligraphy and, at times, even appears as a tangle of symbols or script. The inspiration for this method stemmed from Tobey’s deep interest in Zen Buddhism, his time spent in China, and his studies of calligraphy in Japan.
His work can be seen as a bridge between Eastern and Western art traditions. While contemporaneous artists like Jackson Pollock were developing their own “drip” techniques, Tobey’s approach was more controlled, intricate, and spiritual.
Tobey’s inspirations didn’t end with Eastern traditions. He was also influenced by the Bahá’í Faith, which emphasizes the unity of all religions and humanity.
Artists with a similar bent towards integrating calligraphy and abstraction in their work include Brion Gysin and Ismail Gulgee. However, Tobey remains a unique figure in the annals of 20th-century art, integrating a deep sense of spirituality with modernist abstraction.
Useful Links
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Tobey
https://www.wikiart.org/en/mark-tobey
