1952 Modernist Vintage Arizona Southwest Inspired Painting, Signed

Description

A striking Southwest modernist work, appropriately titled "Fantasia" and dated 1952, by Tucson Fine Arts Association member BESS WEST. The … more A striking Southwest modernist work, appropriately titled "Fantasia" and dated 1952, by Tucson Fine Arts Association member BESS WEST. The work , oil on canvasboard (18" by 14", and 18 1/2" by 22 1/2" in apparently original frame) is signed at lower right "B. WEST" and on reverse appears the title, artist name and date, and an original card from the Seventh Annual Independent Open Show in Tucson in 1953. The imagery features such icons of the Southwest as a saguaro cactus, cow skull, five-pointed stars, a western style boot, and other assorted shapes that demand explanation, all splayed against a wide open landscape under a blue sky. This is a quality southwestern work in excellent condition. An internet search amazingly reveals no information on this obviously highly talented artist. Further research should certainly yield more about her. The Tucson Fine Arts Association was formed in the late 1920's and was active into mid century. A very stylish work; its modernity should prove appealing to today's collectors. The frame is I think a significant part of the originality of the work. There is some old tape residue at lower right. less