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LOT 004

BCSFA CGP CPE OC RCA
1919 - 2020
Canadian

Abstract
oil on canvas, circa 1965
signed
26 x 32 in, 66 x 81.3 cm

Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000 CAD

Sold for: $38,025

Preview at: Heffel Vancouver

PROVENANCE
Private Collection, Vancouver


A new direction emerged in Gordon Smith’s work in 1965 that incorporated bold colour and a dynamic tension between forms and lines that expanded from the centre and beyond the limitation of the edge of the canvas. These works, of which Abstract is a superlative example, were imbued with a kind of nervous energy, activated by a vivid colour palette. Explosive central forms hover on rich colour fields as Smith painted with a daring eloquence. The physics of expansion and compression were at play and in movement, creating sensations of both tension and freedom. Various subjects were indicated in these works by their titles, such as gardens, landscapes and still life, but abstraction was dominant. The 1965 oil considered to be the initiatory painting of this group – entitled Red Wizard, Red – achieved considerable recognition and was reproduced in Time magazine. In 1966, a retrospective of Smith’s work was mounted at the University of British Columbia Fine Arts Gallery including works from this series, further reinforcing Smith’s eminence in British Columbia’s artistic community.


Estimate: $20,000 - $30,000 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.