Sam Lewis Francis, American, French, 1923 to 1994, oil on cardboard painting depicting an Abstract Expressionist composition. Signed upper left. Sam Francis is known for Splatter-stain imagery painting, graphics. An Abstract Expressionist painter known for his brilliant coloration and splotch like shapes, Sam Francis became one of the big name modernist artists of the second half of the 20th century. He was much influenced by Clyfford Still and Mark Rothko. Unlike the creations of many of the Abstract Expressionists and the Bay Area Figurative painters, his work was light and airy and increasingly decorative. One of a kind artwork. Mid Century American Fine Art, Expressionist Paintings And Wall Decor Collectibles.