1970s Paul Olsen “Explosion #20” San Francisco Counterculture Process Painting 19.5”

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“Explosion #20” is an original experimental process painting by San Francisco counterculture artist Paul Olsen, created using a distinctive technique … Read more “Explosion #20” is an original experimental process painting by San Francisco counterculture artist Paul Olsen, created using a distinctive technique in which paint was arranged around a firecracker and ignited, allowing the explosion itself to generate the final composition.

The resulting image combines Abstract Expressionist energy with the experimental spirit of late 1960s and early 1970s Bay Area Pop Art.

Olsen was co-founder of the influential San Francisco poster company Funky Features and later became known for commercial artwork connected to psychedelic music culture, album design, and film production work including contributions associated with Star Trek.

The reverse bears a handwritten inscription reading “A Giftie For Susan…The Girl Who Really Knocks Me Out,” personally confirmed by Olsen in direct correspondence as referring to his former girlfriend Susan S-----n of Telegraph Hill near Coit Tower in San Francisco.

Documentation of this provenance is included with the work. A compelling and highly personal example of Bay Area counterculture art history.

Provinance: Artist has confirmed the authenticity of the piece in an email which will be included with the sale.



Measurements: 19.5" x 13" x 2.5

Weight: 2.4 lb

Origin: United States

Age: 1970 See less