Robert Birdwell (Tennessee, 20th century) mixed media on canvas abstract painting titled "Guitar Player (Beggar)". Dated and signed "62 Birdwell" lower right. Titled, signed, and dated en verso. Includes "Knoxville Artists: Robert Birdwell, Richard Clarke, C. Kermit Ewing, Joanna Higgs, Walter H. Stevens, Carl Sublett" by Dale G. Cleaver catalog for a 1960 exhibition featuring the artists. Robert Birdwell title page inscribed by the artist reads "In spite of my discouraging remarks you are still making progress Robert Birdwell". Housed in a contemporary wooden frame. Sight – 29 5/9" H x 17 3/4" W. Framed – 36 3/4" H x 24 3/4" W. Note – This painting was featured in a Six Knoxville Artists show at the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture in 1962. Biography (courtesy of Stephen Wicks, Curator – Knoxville Museum of Art): Birdwell was among the early Abstract Expressionist painters in East Tennessee, along with Buck Ewing, Carl Sublett, and Walter Stevens. While Sublett and Stevens found their primary inspiration along the Maine coastline, Birdwell often drew inspiration from urban settings. Together they produced what are likely the first abstract paintings in Tennessee and helped establish a foothold for modern art in the region. CONDITION: Overall excellent condition. Water damage, top and lower right corners (not on inscription).