Original Oil Painting “Old Town Street” by Brooks Willis [SOLD]

Associating with artists Raymond Jonson, Andrew Dasburg and others, Brooks Willis was an active participant in the progressive art movements in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Taos beginning in the 1930s.

Art trends in Europe, including the post-impressionist Fauvist and Cubist styles, defined the evolution of American modernism. The departure from traditional style and representation began as early as the turn of the century as evidenced by exhibitions such as The Eight in 1908 and the Armory Show in 1913. As were numerous artists painting in and around New Mexico at the time, Willis was influenced by the modernist movement both artistically and intellectually. Working in both oil and watercolor, Willis painted landscapes as well as classic still life subjects, reflecting an attention to form and a freedom of expression that was consistent with the modernist movement.

The economic depression of the 1930s limited many artists working throughout New Mexico, particularly the modernist painters whose work was just gaining respect. Much of the historical reference to Willis and his work remain obscure, and few examples of his work have been exhibited. Willis, however, received recognition from Raymond Jonson, who recommended him on several occasions for inclusion in public exhibitions representative of Southwestern painting.

As with many New Mexico artists during the depression, Willis found it necessary to paint in a representational style, forgoing his modernist style, in order to make sales. He was an exceptional representational painter as beautifully illustrated in this scene designated as a street in Old Town Albuquerque, most likely in the 1930s, although it is not dated.

It appears that the frame is original to the painting and quite possibly handmade and painted by the artist to compliment the painting. The painting is in original excellent condition.