What inspired the colorful, abstract paintings of Sean Scully?

Sean Scully is a well-known abstract painter known for his colorful paintings that evoke emotional responses from viewers. Scully's work has been influenced by a variety of sources, including his Irish heritage, the landscape of his youth, and the works of artists like Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman.

One of the primary inspirations for Scully's art is his connection to Ireland. He has stated that the Irish landscape has been a profound influence on his work, and that he often draws inspiration from the colors and textures of the land. Scully's use of bold, vibrant colors in his paintings is reminiscent of the greens, blues, and grays of the Irish countryside.

Another influence on Scully's work is the minimalist movement of the 1960s and 70s. He was drawn to the simplicity and purity of minimalism, but also wanted to inject emotion and expressiveness into his work. This led him to develop his signature style of abstract painting, which features broad stripes of color that are both bold and subtle.

Finally, Scully has cited the works of Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman as inspirations for his art. He was drawn to their use of color and their ability to create a sense of depth and emotion in their work. Scully's paintings similarly create a powerful emotional response in viewers, despite their seemingly simple composition.