Joseph Drapell (1940) - Seclusion

Seclusion

acrylic with additives on canvas
94 cms x 101.6 cms (37 ins x 40 ins)
Seclusion, signed, titled, and dated '1984' twice on the reverse
made in 1984
Lot offered for sale by Bonhams, Toronto at the auction event "Canadian Art - Fall 2011" held on Tue, Nov 29, 2011.
Lot 1182
Realised: CAD $15,000

Lot description - from the online catalogue*

Provenance:
Private collection, Toronto

After spending the first 25 years of his life under German and Soviet occupation, he looked to Canada as an opportunity for artistic freedom emigrating in 1966. Earning an M.F.A. from Cranbrook Academy he became increasingly interested in the physicality of paint and its manipulation on canvas. Acrylic provided the flexibility for him to alter the state of the medium, experimenting with additives, thickeners and resin. Residing on an island in Georgian Bay, which he purchased in 1971, Drapell was inspired by the experiences of the land, water and nature – the feeling of freedom.

A prime example of Drapell's work from the early '80s, Seclusion illustrates the use of a comb or spreading tool, a signature technique introduced in 1983 that he would continue to use throughout his career. By manipulating the materials, the density of the surface is altered creating depth through the reflection of the ridges of pigment. These mechanical structures broaden the term of abstract painting, as he further engages his shoulder and arm in the final stages of creation. The circular radiation and the use of blue and red hues evokes a sense of temperature and atmosphere of the outdoors with a radiating light from the inner point of focus.
Most realised prices include the Buyer's Premium of 18-25%, but not the HST/GST Tax.
(*) Text and/or Image might be subject matter of Copyright. Check with Bonhams auction house for permission to use.
Seclusion by artist Joseph Drapell