This 1950s graphite on paper drawing of a cabaret dancer is by second generation New York School artist Richard Caldwell Brewer (1923-2014). Brewer along with his charmed circle of artist friends, represent the lesser known art scene that emerged in the wake of Abstract Expressionism. Close friends and contemporaries with art world notables, such as Robert De Niro Sr., Nell Blaine, Leland Bell, and Samuel Wagstaff, Brewer's career is certainly that of a "painter's painter." His move to California in the 1950s brought him in touch with San Francisco's vibrant Beat poet scene, and he maintained his ties to NYC traveling between the two coasts regularly. A selection of his works on paper and writings are in the collection of the Bancroft Library at UC-Berkeley, an archive that also includes the work of Mark Twain and Joan Brown, among others. Much of his work has also been acquired by ONE National Gay & Lesbian Archives at the USC Libraries - the largest repository of LGBTQ materials in the world.
Circa 1956 Graphite on Paper 15.75"x17.75" framed, 8.5"x10.75" unframed
Excellent vintage condition. Framed in a restored wide-faced vintage wood frame with a matte black finish using red archival matting behind conservation clear glass.