Gordon Steele (American, 1906-1961) Shantytown

Description:

Gordon Steele (American, 1906-1961)

Shantytown
Signed and indistinctly dated "Gordon Steele /..." l.l., inscribed "GORDON
STEELE/ SYRACUSE N.Y." possibly in the artist's hand, on the stretcher, identified on two exhibition labels from Terry National Art Exhibit, Miami, affixed to the reverse, inscribed "HONORABLE MENTION/TERRY NATIONAL ART EXHIBIT/1952" on a presentation plaque.
Oil with tooling on canvas, 20 x 26 in. (50.8 x 66.0 cm),framed.
Condition: Area of pentimento (including a faint, partial signature) l.l., scattered craquelure, mild surface grime.
N.B. Gordon Steele lived and worked in Syracuse, New York. Predominately self-taught, Steele usually worked without any sort of preliminary sketches. With an ever-evolving technique, Steele often used a dark color palette and created compositions that incorporate elements of abstraction. Many of his paintings address the relationship between man and his environment. (1) Throughout his career, Steele exhibited his work frequently and won numerous awards. His legacy continues as the Syracuse Arts Association has named the top prize in their Annual Juried Members' Exhibition, the Gordon Steele Best in Show award, after him.

(1) Bridgman, Ann,"Two Artists in Show Offer Comparison in Manner of Approach," The Norwalk Hour, July 9, 1957, p. 4.


Estimate $1,500-1,800

Keywords