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The article discusses the author's views on Abstract Expressionism (AbEx). She suggests that the AbEx movement has a reputation of being vulgar and gendered and that its defenders have institutionalized it. She compares AbEx to disco music, suggesting that both were loved and hated simultaneously. Also discussed are her personal experiences with AbEx philosophies and her experience at art school with divisions between critical theory and studio art.

The author focuses on the work of artist Elizabeth Murray. According to the author, Murray's art is interesting because it was out of fashion for its time, featuring bright colors, odd forms, and a unique view of gender politics. The author examines Murray's philosophy toward painting and her status as a female artist.