In this period, Ekstrom’s art hints that a crossroads or threshold was reached.  His art begins to follow its own tangent independent of the prevailing movements in the art scene.  Borders and shared borders seem to fascinate Ekstrom as his work, at this time, explores the relationships of line and shape.  Though he still makes use of simple geometric shapes, even these are transformed as he manipulates how they’re perceived in a kind of visual acrobatics.  

“…by having trails you wish, expect to see the circle in it lined up – if it is not – it becomes charged – exciting situation.  The contrast between what is expected and what is seen!” 

Notes from Ekstrom’s Circle Series studies

#Z-13, early 1970s, approx. 30″x40″

#266, early 1970s, 23″x35″

#121, 22″x30″

#99, 1973, broken frame, 30″sqr.

#98, 31″x23.5″

#77? 23″x35″

#72, 30″x22″

#19, 69″x85″

#70, 1970, 22″x30″

#69, 22″x30″

#57, 1970, 36″x27″

#20, masonite, 48″sq.

#63, 32″x22″

#15, 45″x57″

#2(?), approx. 63″sqr., masonite

#284, Circle Series, 30″x40″

#283, Circle Series, 30″x40″

#282, Circle Series, 30″x40″

#281, Circle Series, 30″x40″

#281, Circle Series, 30″x40″

#279, “Circle Bands” 1977, Circle Series, 30″x40″

#278, “Gate”1977, Circle Series Transition, 30″x40”

#275, 1977, Circle Series, 30″x40″

#285, 30″x40″

#276, “Story Grid” 1977, 30″x40″

Circle Series, 30″x40″