Fritz William Scholder (American - Mission/Luiseno, 1937-2005). "Portrait with Leaves Study" mixed media on paper, 1982. Hand signed at top center. A mixed media composition by Fritz Scholder depicting an abstract figure surrounded by or emerging from leaves with a few expressive paint splatters in red and blue hues here and there. A unique work of art by Fritz Scholder, mounted behind glass in a custom frame. Size (artwork): 10.75" L x 9.25" W (27.3 cm x 23.5 cm) Size (frame): 17.75" L x 16.125" W (45.1 cm x 41 cm)

Fritz Scholder is best known for creating powerful depictions of Native Americans that depart from stereotypes. Interestingly, although Scholder was enrolled as a member of the Luiseno tribe, he oftentimes claimed that he was not actually Indian. Nevertheless, his art demonstrated a refreshing rejection of sentimental, romantic portrayals of indigenous peoples. In his words, "I have painted the Indian real, not red." He based his imagery on actual historical research. For example, Scholder revealed that his painting of a Native American wrapped in an American flag, an image that has become iconic, was based on "19th-century prison photographs of Indians dressed in surplus flags in lieu of their confiscated tribal regalia." In addition to the meaningful political messages of his art, Scholder's style, with its kinetic brushwork and vibrant colors, have truly set him apart. Various art historians have described Scholder's style as a fusion of Pop Art and Abstract Expressionism. Scholder, however, referred to himself an "American expressionist" who celebrated paint and what it can do. In his words, "Paint drips, it smears. It's not because I'm trying to fool anyone into thinking this is a three-dimensional object on a two-dimensional surface ..."

Provenance: private Shelley Lickfeldt collection Mesa, Arizona, USA; acquired directly from the artist when Shelley Lickfeldt was Fritz Scholder's studio assistant at Arizona State University

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#182481

Hand signed at top center. Mounted behind glass in a custom frame. Artwork has not been examined outside the frame. Tears to left edge of paper (possibly the original condition of the sheet) that do not impact the drawing. Tally Richards Gallery label on gallery paper on verso. Tears to gallery paper on verso that do not impact the artwork.