William Wolff: Paintings from the Estate January 24, 2009

William Wolff “Paintings from the Estate” is in our Main Space bringing to light a selection of paintings that have rarely been seen.

William Wolff (1922-2004) was a colleague, friend and portraitist of the Bay Area Figurative painters. Initially similar to theirs, the figures in his work evolved into myth-inspired, classical subjects. His 1950s and 60s paintings record a conversation between Abstract Expressionist improvisation and Cubist structure, within a context of traditional and historic subjects.

These, and other references in the work, illuminate Wolff’s interest in representing a cultural history steeped in literature. They also portray his allegiance to a style inspired by early twentieth century Modernist artists. Ultimately, the human figure stands out as the force of meaning.

Wolff was born in San Francisco in 1922 and studied at the California School of Fine Arts (now the San Francisco Art Institute). He received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from the University of California, Berkeley. Additionally, he studied with Rupert Garcia, Gordon Cook and Max Beckmann. William Wolff passed away in San Francisco in 2004.

Gallery Hours: 12-6 pm Wed-Sun, occasional evenings, always by appointment.

Official Website: http://artzone461.com