From 1956 to 1959, Abbey experienced the Southwest desert landscape, living in or near national monuments in Arizona, New Mexico, and Utah. She painted out-of-doors, was awed by the majesty of the desert, and grew fascinated by the geology, plant life, and wildlife she observed. 

The Arches National Monument Series, 1956–1958, contrast organic textures with geometric shapes while focusing on color with a textured impasto manner of paint application.