This work by Cy Twombly features scrawled text and abstract shapes in yellow and orange over a turquoise background. The words 'Leaving Paphos Ringed With Waves' allude to the ancient city of Paphos in Cyprus.

Cy Twombly, an American artist (1928-2011), is associated with Abstract Expressionism and known for his large-scale, gestural paintings that often incorporate elements of writing and classical mythology. His work bridges the gap between painting and drawing, characterised by a seemingly spontaneous, yet carefully considered, application of paint. Twombly's art often evokes a sense of history and place, drawing on his extensive knowledge of classical literature and ancient cultures. 'Leaving Paphos Ringed With Waves V' exemplifies Twombly's distinctive style. The painting features a vibrant turquoise background overlaid with scrawled text and abstract shapes in yellow and orange. The words 'Leaving Paphos Ringed With Waves' are legible, alluding to the ancient city of Paphos in Cyprus, which is associated with the goddess Aphrodite. The orange shapes, somewhat resembling boats or abstract figures, are rendered with dripping paint, adding to the work's dynamic energy. The overall effect is one of immediacy and raw emotion, inviting viewers to engage with the artist's personal interpretation of history and myth.