W. R. Thrasher (Texas, 1908-1997), bluebonnet landscape, oil on canvas

sight: 24 x 36 in., frame: 32 x 44 in.

Born in 1908 in Lamar County, Texas, William Robert Thrasher grew up a farm boy. But early on he had a desire to paint, and spent all his earnings for brushes and canvas. He observed and painted the life he knew, including wildlife, farm scenes, and the unspoiled rural countryside of early twentieth century Texas. The death of his father during the Depression forced the sale of the farm and family possessions. However, the first items sold, and the most in demand, were the early paintings Thrasher had completed. This gave him the encouragement to focus on making a career of art. At this time, Thrasher rendered his paintings on beaver board, masonite and other relatively cheap materials available to him. These early creations, usually landscapes, soon found homes in Lamar and surrounding counties, with Thrasher building his reputation and market. After some time, noted art critics considered him a serious artist worthy of recognition, commenting on the high level of execution, composition, and perspective in his work. Today, Thrasher works are included in private collections throughout the country, in state offices in Austin, Texas, in various universities, and in congressional offices in Washington, D.C.

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