In the 1960s, Pierre Soulages underwent a significant evolution in his artistic approach, marking a pivotal period in his career. This decade was characterized by his move towards using black paint to cover the entire surface of his canvases, a departure from his earlier works where thick black lines were contrasted against lighter backgrounds. This shift represented a deeper exploration of black as a color capable of dominating the canvas without the need for a contrasting background, thus intensifying the viewer's engagement with the textural and reflective qualities of the surface​ (Galerie Diane de Polignac)​. The 1960s also saw Soulages achieving considerable international recognition, with his works being showcased in major exhibitions across Europe and the United States. His participation in prestigious events such as Documenta in Germany underscored his standing among the post-war masters. Soulages was celebrated not just for his unique treatment of black but also for his innovative techniques that allowed light to play a crucial role in the perception of his works. The heavy, textured brushstrokes of his paintings from this era, highlighted by refracted white light, exemplified his belief that "Black is never the same because light changes it"​ (Sothebys.com)​. Soulages' work during the 1960s laid the groundwork for his later Outrenoir series, where he would further explore the materiality of black paint and its interaction with light. This decade solidified his reputation as a leading figure in the abstract movement and as a pioneer in the exploration of the depth and luminosity of black. Soulages' artistic journey through the 1960s illustrates his relentless pursuit of a deeper understanding of black as a color that is both a presence and an absence, capable of capturing the complexity of the human experience and the subtleties of light and shadow​ (Galerie Diane de Polignac)​​ (Encyclopedia Britannica)​.