Bridget Riley's screenprint "New Day" (1992) represents a significant work in the artist's oeuvre, showcasing her mastery of optical effects and her evolution as a key figure in the Op Art movement.

The present work signifies Riley's shift from her earlier black and white geometric works to her exploration of color, which began in the mid-1960s. This transition was influenced by her study of Egyptian hieroglyphs and their use of opposing colours. Featuring Riley's signature use of vibrant colours, rhythmic patterns, and form to create dynamic visual sensations that engage viewers in an active perceptual experience. Known for producing illusions of movement and colour across the picture plane, Riley's work is a captivating exploration of the power of visual perception. Here, "New Day" evokes the sensation of a fresh beginning or the dawning of light, achieved through carefully calibrated colour relationships and geometric patterns.

"New Day" represents a mature period in the artist's practice. By 1992, Riley had already gained widespread recognition, including winning the International Painting Prize at the Venice Biennale in 1968. The present work reflects her ongoing engagement with colour theory and perception, themes that have been central to her practice since the 1960s.

While Riley is primarily known for her paintings, her prints, including "New Day," have grown in importance over the years. She views printmaking as a valuable addition to her artistic practice, allowing her to extend particular trains of thought and explore variations on themes developed in her paintings. The screenprint medium, in particular, has enabled Riley to achieve the precision and vibrancy necessary for her optical effects, a testament to her technical skill and mastery.

"New Day" is a testament to Bridget Riley's enduring influence on contemporary art. It embodies her lifelong exploration of perception, colour, and movement while representing the artist's ability to translate her visual language across different media.