Lot 438: Large C. Kermit Ewing Abstract Mixed Media Painting, Chain Makers Studio, 1963

Charles Kermit “Buck” Ewing (Tennessee, 1910-1976) cement, liquid latex, and oil on board painting, “Chain Makers Studio.” Collaged elements that include a chain and other found, industrial objects painted in metallic rust and steel blue tones with concrete texturing are arranged in an abstract composition. Titled, signed, and dated en verso along with inscriptions “Cement, liquid latex, and oils,” “Prof. Fine Arts UT,” and “Knoxville, Tenn.” Housed in the original thin, wormy wooden frame. Board: 39 1/2 in. H x 29 1/2 in. W. Frame: 41 in. H x 31 in. W. 1963. Biographical Note: A leader of the Knoxville 7 artist group, Charles Kermit “Buck” Ewing came to the University of Tennessee in 1947 to head the art program in the newly organized Department of Fine Arts. Born in Bentleyville, Pennsylvania, he studied under Jean Charlot at the University of Iowa and taught art at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Carnegie Mellon. Among his art students at Carnegie Mellon were Philip Pearlstein and Andy Warhol. During his 29 years as head of UT’s art program, the faculty grew from one (himself) to 25, and the curriculum expanded to provide graduate and undergraduate opportunities in all the basic fine arts disciplines and in commercial art. During his career he was a leader in starting such groups as the Knoxville 7; Seven in New Rochelle, New York; the art society in Indiana, Pennsylvania; the Gilpin County Art Center in Central City, Colorado; the Knoxville Watercolor Society; the Tennessee College Arts Council; and the Knoxville Arts Council. He served as president of the Southeastern College Art Association. The Ewing Gallery in the University of Tennessee’s Art and Architecture Building is named for him. (Adapted from Betsey B. Creekmore, “C. Kermit Ewing,” University of Tennessee Libraries)

CONDITION: Overall very good condition. Frame with minor abrasions and losses.