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LOT 046

BCSFA CGP CPE OC RCA
1919 - 2020
Canadian

R.F. XI
acrylic on canvas
signed and on verso signed, titled, dated 1987 and inscribed "Anthony Island"
75 x 65 in, 190.5 x 165.1 cm

Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000 CAD

Sold for: $49,250

Preview at:

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Vancouver

LITERATURE
Ian M. Thom and Andrew Hunter, Gordon Smith: The Act of Painting, Vancouver Art Gallery, 1997, page 49


In 1984, 1986 and 1987, Gordon Smith visited Haida Gwaii, and the coastal rain forest became the basis for his abstractions. His palette changed from the bright colours of his previous Cumberland Basin works to deep, cool hues, and he was applying his paint with abandon. Around this time, Smith produced Tanu I, a large-scale work (in the collection of the Vancouver Art Gallery) in which paint hung in curtains, dripped and slashed across the surface. Its bravura style typified the work of this time and can be seen in R.F. XI. Ian Thom wrote, “Smith’s love for the physicality of paint has moved the images beyond being objects pure and simple and into a spiritual realm…The synchronicity of image and paint become spirit.” This outstanding painting is dominated by vertical forms that suggest towering evergreens and rock faces. Light glows from above, and forms swirl around the forest floor, reminiscent of Emily Carr’s depictions of energy moving through the forest. Smith’s energized, fluid brushwork makes R.F. XI radiant and alive.


Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.