LongHouse Talks: Tony Bechara Annotations on Color Schemes

A posthumous book launch celebrates the publication of Annotations on Color Schemes, a richly illustrated volume that brings to light the working methods of abstract painter Tony Bechara. The book features Bechara’s notes and color formulas, offering insight into the systematic yet chance-driven approach behind his grid-based paintings.

Tony Bechara, born in Puerto Rico in 1942, lived and worked in New York City and was a central figure in both the art world and Latinx cultural advocacy. His abstract paintings explored the tension between order and randomness through meticulously taped grids filled with vibrant color combinations. Beyond his practice, he served as Chairman of the Board at El Museo del Barrio, guiding its growth into a leading institution, and remained active in organizations such as Studio in a School and the Brooklyn Academy of Music. In 2024, he was honored at LongHouse Reserve for his artistic achievements and community leadership.

Speakers at the launch include Phong Bui, publisher of the Brooklyn Rail, and Carrie Barratt, director of LongHouse Reserve.