Charles Nelson Beck (1923-2017) very limited edition Mid Century Woodblock Print 23/35 "Fern 2" done in 1972. Professionally framed and triple matted. In frame measures 23"x33"x2". Weight 8 pds. PROVENANCE: A Private LA/Charleston SC Estate. Charles Beck, one of the most recognized artists in Minnesota, was born in Fergus Falls in 1923. He began drawing in grade school, often trading his work with other students for candy and marbles. Beck studied art under Cyrus Running at Concordia College in Moorhead during the 1940’s. He was also convinced to play football by sports director Jake Christiansen, which became another important aspect of his college career. Beck credits Running and the Christiansen brothers (Jake and Paul) at Concordia as being great influences in his life. Beck graduated from Concordia in 1948 after taking time off to serve as a pilot in the Navel Air Force. He continued his education at the University of Iowa, where he received his Master of Fine Arts degree in 1950. Beck then returned to his hometown of Fergus Falls where he was a sign painter. In 1953, Beck enrolled at the University of Minnesota and studied under Cameron Booth, Walter Quirt and Malcolm Meyers. It was during this time that Beck was introduced to woodblock printing and when he completed his first print, Holy Family. Beck joined the faculty at Fergus Falls Community College (now M State) in 1960, where he taught for 27 years. Concordia granted Beck an honorary doctorate in 1980, and in 2006, M State honored Beck by naming their new gallery after him.

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