Poles of the Mountain is emblematic of Leila McConnell’s “sky paintings.” It shows a silky sky and two dark mountain summits. The peaceful firmament is rendered in shades of yellow, grey, and beige. Three poles, sprouting from the mountains, stand erect in the center of the composition. The work is harmonious. The parallel lines and level peaks create a sense of balance and order. The colors of the sky blend seamlessly. These tonal relationships call to mind the color field paintings of Mark Rothko, one of McConnell’s instructors at the California School of Fine Arts. In a 2006 interview, McConnell stated that Rothko was among the first to encourage her to create abstract art. However, McConnell was a confident, determined, and original artist long before crossing paths with Rothko.

Born in 1927 in Los Angeles, McConnell relocated to Houston with her family as a child. She studied architecture under James Chillman at Rice Institute (now Rice University). Upon graduating, she continued her studies at the Museum School (now the Glassell School) at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. As a young artist, McConnell mainly produced realistic portraits and still lifes. In 1949, she studied under Rothko at the San Francisco School of Fine Arts. Inspired by Rothko and her fellow artists, McConnell’s style shifted toward abstraction. From 1950 until 1968, she held an instructional position at the MFAH’s Museum School. Her work has been shown at the MFAH, the Dallas Museum of Art, and the Witte Museum in San Antonio.