Howard Mehring (1931-1978) was one of the most influential artists of the Washington Color School. After he received his M.F.A. from Catholic University in 1955, Mehring traveled to New York to visit the studios and study the works of artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Helen Frankenthaler. When he returned to the DC area, Mehring began to paint in a similar loose technique of the New York School artists. However, over time Mehring favored geometric forms, sharp edges and rich tonal variations. Mehring also differed from his fellow Washington Color School artists by favoring a heavier painting technique and more stylized forms. Although only active from the years of 1957-1968, Mehring achieved international status as a prominent Washington Color School artist. His works were purchased from collectors such as Alfred Barr, Walter Hopps, and the Museum of Modern Art.