This lot consists of an oil painting on canvas, done in the Abstract Expressionist style of Raymond "Ray" Parker (American, 1922-1990). A hand painted inscription at lower right corner reads, "R. Parker". This framed piece measures approximately 24.5" x 18.5" overall.

A dynamic, Cubist-influenced composition of softened primary tones, this elemental piece is punctuated by slicing lines and intermingled values. The eye is immediately drawn to a central place of light and color. A distinguished addition to any collection.

Raymond "Ray" Parker (1922-1990) was an American Color Field painter and musician who received his formal art training at the University of Iowa. Parker's early artwork was heavily influenced by the Cubism of Georges Braque and Pablo Picasso. Like so many other creators of his era, Ray Parker was majorly influenced by the free and improvisational nature of jazz music. In terms of form and color, Parker gleaned a great deal of inspiration from Henri Matisse (French, 1869-1954). During the late 1950s and early 1960s, Parker developed a stand-alone style that gravitated toward discreet shapes, intense color, and the earliest forms of what we now refer to as Minimalism.

Ray Parker taught at schools in Minnesota, Tennessee, and Iowa before going on to fulfil the role of guest critic at both Columbia University and Bennington College. In 1955, Parker moved permanently to New York City, where he was a professor of art at Hunter College. Today, Raymond Parker's work can be seen in some of the world's most prestigious and definitive collections: from the Los Angeles Museum of Art and London's Tate Gallery, to the New York museum "giants" like MoMA (The Museum of Modern Art), the Met, the Guggenheim, and the Whitney.

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection from Upstate New York

DIMENSIONS:
Overall approx. 24.5" x 18.5".



Finger Lakes Auction has been commissioned to liquidate a once-in-a-lifetime fine art collection from an Upstate New York Estate. Pieces contained in this auction are some of the finest paintings ever to be offered through our Art Gallery.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall excellent condition. No tears, stains, chips, or crackling evident. Colors remain rich and vivid. Frame is in good condition, with minimal wear evident. Please examine photos for further reference.