Whether landscape or abstract canvas, the work of American artist Richard Diebenkorn captures a sense of the light and place in which he worked, and reveals his mastery as a consummate colourist. The palette and pentimenti of his works are at once quiet and uproarious, subtle and unrestrained.

In this lecture, exhibition curator and art historian Sarah C. Bancroft explores a range of Diebenkorn’s work within the context of what was happening around him in 20th century American art, in particular on the West Coast where he spent much of his career.

Sarah Bancroft is curator of Richard Diebenkorn, with Edith Devaney.

Richard Diebenkorn is in The Sackler Wing at the RA from 14 March — 7 June 2015.