Lot 710: Richard Clarke O/C Painting, Bloom, 1960

Richard Clarke (American/Tennessee,1923-1997) oil on canvas abstract expressionist painting, “Bloom”.  A vivid, gestural composition with passages of heavy impasto — including paint applied directly from the tube — is set against a dark background and suggests the form of a bouquet of flowers. Signed and dated “Clarke 60,” lower right. With title and additional signature and date to verso along with text “1622 Maury St. / Alcoa, Tenn.” Housed in a simple ebonized wood frame. Sight: 30 in. x 30 in. Frame: 30 3/4 in. x 30 3/4 in. 1960. Biographical Note: Richard Clarke was one of the early members of the University of Tennessee’s art faculty. He is often associated with the “Knoxville Seven,” a group of progressive artists connected to the University of Tennessee that included Robert Birdwell, C. Kermit Ewing, Joanna Higgs, Phillip Nichols, Walter H. Stevens and Carl Sublett. He often found inspiration in the natural world around him. 

CONDITION: Overall very good condition, with passages of craquelure throughout.