Peter Plagens’s exhibition, comprising his most recent paintings, each measuring 36 x 30 inches, opens at Nancy Hoffman Gallery on December 11, 2025 and continues through January 31, 2026. In these modestly sized works on panel, Plagens’s abstract imagery is concentrated in the centers of the composition, and his practically trademark use of color is quirkier than before, while still remaining loyal to beauty.

Plagens begins by laying down a background wash that plays with the edges of the panel. Once it is dry, he works inward from the edges by painting succeeding rectangles in opaque layers of muted color. ON top of that background he creates either a truncated triangle or a tall rectangle composed of stacked horizontal shapes made of unexpected and surprising color combinations. Outside the triangle or vertical towers he adds a few floating triangles of more muted color. The result is a series of remarkably potent and unique abstract paintings that merge the soft watercolor-like edges with the rigorous geometric central core.

In contrast to his prior paintings, which were explorations into the range of greys, the new work sings with a celebratory use of color, not shying away from brilliant reds, pastel shades of turquoise and pink or diving into deeper hues of an almost black purple; each work is a symphonic combination of color that in the artist’s hands hum vibrantly.

About this work, the artist says, “In this age where figurative images dominate, I want abstraction to do more than merely repeat what are already established modes. I want it to be a bit bothersome. I try to make my particular brand of abstract painting do that.”

For Plagens, who will celebrate his 85th birthday just after the show closes, these works are a celebration of life well lived.