“I always make the canvas deeper than ordinarily. When you stand directly in front of the painting, it gives it just enough depth to hold it off the wall; you're conscious of this sort of shadow, just enough depth to emphasize the surface.” – Frank Stella

Frank Stella’s Duel works were created as part of his Heinrich von Kleist series, which comprises over 79 pieces, each named after a different text by the German writer Heinrich von Kleist. These monumental paintings are charged with energy, combining contrasting techniques and forms—grids, spirals, and loops—that converge in a dynamic visual rhythm. Though the surface is technically flat, Stella’s use of spray paint, stenciling, and computer projections creates a striking illusion of three-dimensionality.

Spanning multiple mediums, including paintings, prints, sculptures, and murals, the Heinrich von Kleist series exemplifies Stella’s expansive artistic exploration. One of the Duel works resides in the permanent collection of SFMoMA.