Breaking the Rules: Paul Wonner and Theophilus Brown

In response to Abstract Expressionism, Paul Wonner, and William "Theophilus" Brown re-engaged with the visible world, creating Bay Area Figuration. Their works became less gestural and more representational, with Brown known for his psychologically evocative landscapes and Wonner for his "baroque" still lifes. This publication accompanies the most comprehensive exhibition of their work.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 24 April 2023
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

In response to the pervasive pursuit of Abstract Expressionism in the late 1940s and early 1950s, a group of artists emerged in the San Francisco Bay Area, including Paul Wonner and William "Theophilus" Brown. These artists sought to re-engage with the visible world, employing the gestural style of action painting to depict subjects such as people, landscapes, and still lifes. Together, Wonner and Brown aligned themselves with this new artistic direction and became prominent practitioners of what is now known as Bay Area Figuration. Over time, their works evolved, moving from more gestural compositions to more overtly representational ones. Brown gained recognition for his psychologically charged landscapes featuring classic bathers, as well as for his poignant portrayals of lonely urban scenes. Wonner, on the other hand, received widespread acclaim for his "baroque" still lifes, which were filled with everyday objects, animals, and flowers.

To accompany the most comprehensive exhibition of the artists' work ever mounted, this exquisite publication provides an in-depth exploration of their pioneering contributions. The exhibition, titled "Paul Wonner and William "Theophilus" Brown: Bay Area Figuration," will be held at the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento, California, from April 30 to August 27, 2023. It will then travel to the Laguna Art Museum in Laguna Beach, California, from October 14 to January 7, 2024, and finally to the Dixon Gallery and Gardens in Memphis, Tennessee, from January 28 to March 30, 2024.

The artists' works showcased in this exhibition offer a profound reflection of their time and the artistic landscape of the Bay Area. They challenged traditional artistic conventions and pushed the boundaries of abstraction, creating a unique and influential style that has left an indelible mark on the history of modern art. Through their meticulous attention to detail, bold use of color, and expressive brushwork, Wonner and Brown captured the essence of their subjects and the surrounding environment, creating works that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

This publication serves as a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, scholars, and collectors alike. It features comprehensive essays by renowned art historians and critics, providing insights into the artists' backgrounds, influences, and artistic processes. Additionally, the exhibition catalog includes detailed images of the artists' works, allowing viewers to appreciate their intricate details and the rich textures of their compositions.

Paul Wonner and William "Theophilus" Brown's legacy continues to inspire and influence contemporary artists, and their contributions to Bay Area Figuration have helped shape the artistic landscape of the region and beyond. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of their artistic careers and to appreciate the profound impact that they have had on the world of art.

Weight: 1852g
Dimension: 305 x 240 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785514463