22972 Ken Done

The composition presents a stylized arrangement of hibiscus flowers in a vase against a stark black background. The artist employs a flattened perspective and bold color blocking characteristic of modern design. A vibrant yellow sphere, likely intended as the sun or moon, occupies the upper left quadrant, contrasting with deep blue shapes that suggest clouds or an abstracted sky.
The central focus rests on three large hibiscus blossoms rendered in intense shades of pink-red. Their forms are simplified to essential shapes, emphasizing their petal structure through a series of overlapping planes. The stems and leaves, depicted in varying greens, emerge from a tall, cylindrical yellow vase that dominates the lower portion of the image.
A horizontal band of blue delineates the space between the floral arrangement and a decorative border at the base. This border features an alternating pattern of stylized X shapes and geometric forms, adding a playful element to the overall design. The word “Hibiscus” is inscribed vertically on the vase itself, directly identifying the subject matter in a straightforward manner.
The work’s subtexts revolve around themes of tropical beauty, simplified representation, and decorative art. The use of bright, saturated colors evokes a sense of warmth and vitality, while the geometric abstraction distances the image from naturalistic depiction. The inscription Hibiscus suggests an interest in celebrating specific flora, potentially as a symbol of exoticism or cultural identity. The overall effect is one of deliberate design, prioritizing aesthetic impact over realistic portrayal.