The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of December 18, 2025

Beyond Istanbul

1973

Susan Crile

(American, 1942-)
America
oil on canvas
Overall: 157.5 x 104.7 cm (62 x 41 1/4 in.)
Gift of Judy Collins 2004.44
Location: Not on view

Description

Inspired by mosaic, architectural details, and exotic patterns observed on her travels, Susan Crile exploits repetitive motifs and decorative details in her painting. Beyond Istanbul may initially appear as an abstract pattern of form and color, but the title reveals that this image shows a section of a Turkish rug, perhaps draped over an upright surface. Stretching and compressing planar forms into dynamic compositions magnifies Crile’s concern for spatial complexity. Here her manner of depicting an object for both its formal structure and abstract beauty challenges the viewer’s perception. Like Henri Matisse, Crile uses pattern to demonstrate how color and form can suggest movement and spatial depth.
  • "Susan Crile," The Phillips Collection, Washington, D.C. (Sept. 20 - Nov. 2, 1975).
    "Susan Crile," Kornblee Gallery, N.Y.C. (April 28 - May 17, 1973).
  • {{cite web|title=Beyond Istanbul|url=false|author=Susan Crile|year=1973|access-date=18 December 2025|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/2004.44