Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934) Mile Rocks Lighthouse signed and dated 'Widforss - 1925' (lower left) watercolor on paper laid to board 10 x 13 1/4 in. unframed
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934) California Coastal Scene (Near Highway 1) signed and dated 'Widforss / -1923-' (lower right) watercolor on paper sheet 14 x 17 1/8 in. framed 25 3/4 x 27 3/4 in.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879 â 1934) Watercolor Kebnekaise Mountain Sweden 1918. Widforss is most noted for his watercolors of Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. This watercolor was painted towards the end of WWI while Widforss was in Sweden. He returned to America and in 1921 discovered Yosemite. His great watercolor paintings hang in the famous Ahwanee Hotel in Yosemite. Tim Holton custom walnut frame. 15.25"w x 8.75"h. Frame 21"w x 14"h. FREE NATIONWIDE SHIPPING for all of your purchases at our Two Day Auction within the lower 48 states. No matter whether you buy one small piece or a large piece of furniture, all of your SHIPPING WILL BE FREE If you purchase 15 pieces of furniture, your shipping will still be free within the lower 48 states. We box and ship ourselves, to keep shipping costs low. We do not use a packaging service, unless the customer prefers us to use them. We can ship either USPS or FedEx Ground. We deliver larger pieces ourselves on the west coast and we make a loop around the US within approximately 60 days after the auction. No matter where you live in the lower 48 states, we look forward to personally meeting you and delivering larger pieces directly to your house.
Gunnar Widforss (Swedish/American, 1879-1934), "Camelback Mountain, Scottsdale Arizona," watercolor, signed lower left, sight: 13"h x 19.5"w, overall (with frame): 15"h x 21.75"w. Note: This work is included in the Gunnar Widforss Catalogue Raisonne as no. 654. Clars is grateful to Alan Petersen for authenticating this work.
Gunnar Widforss (Swedish/American, 1879-1934), Untitled (Grand Canyon), oil on canvas affixed to board, signed lower left, board: 16"h x 12"w, overall (with frame): 19"h x 15"w. Note: This work is included in the Gunnar Widforss Catalogue Raisonne as no. 652. Clars is grateful to Alan Petersen for authenticating this work.
Title is Grand Canyon 1927. 20" by 22" unframed. 31" by 34" framed. Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879 - 1934) was active/lived in California, Arizona / Sweden. Gunnar Widforss is known for National park landscape painting, illustration. Gunnar Mauritz Widforss was born in Stockholm, Sweden on October 21, 1879 the third of thirteen children. His father, Mauritz, owned a firearm and hunting shop. Widforss' mother, Blenda, had studied art at The Technical School (now Konstfack) and was a noted amateur painter. When he was sixteen years old Widforss would begin his training to become a painter and muralist at the same school. Following the completion of his studies at the Technical School in 1900, Widforss traveled to St. Petersburg Russia to work as an apprentice decorative painter. He returned home approximately two years later and then embarked on an extended period of travel around Europe and America. Widforss worked primarily in watercolor, and he led a bohemian lifestyle traveling in search of great landscapes to paint. Between 1904 and 1909, he ventured to Austria, Switzerland, the Mediterranean region and North Africa. From 1906 to 1907 he visited the United States where he resided in Jacksonville, Florida and later Brooklyn, New York doing odd jobs and paintings on commission. When he was in his mid-thirties Widforss began to gain recognition for his work. Two of his watercolors of the French Riviera were accepted into the Paris Salon of 1912, and King Gustaf V of Sweden acquired six Widforss works. The upheaval of the First World War forced a hiatus on his travels. At the conclusion of the war Widforss resumed his wandering lifestyle throughout Europe. He also had hopes of painting the exotic landscapes of the Orient, but in early 1921 as he traveled across America en route to Japan his funds ran out. Widforss arrived in California and spent most of February 1921 painting the idyllic seaside views of Catalina Island. He continued exploring the California coast and made many paintings of the dramatic scenery and atmospheric effects found in these newly discovered landscapes. Earlier in his career Widforss had established a pattern of working at popular destinations for tourists where he could be assured of sales. This is a pattern that he followed after his arrival in the West. Soon after arriving in California Widforss made his way to Yosemite Valley. He first visited there in March 1921 and made it a semi-regular home until around 1928. With its monolithic granite walls and shady groves, Yosemite became another one of Widforss' major subjects. As with Grand Canyon, which would eventually become his most favored subject, Yosemite offered the dynamic visual contrast of architectural rock formations and deep atmospheric space -- two elements that Widforss was able to capture with captivating accuracy. Widforss made many friends In Yosemite including Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service. Mather became one of the artist's greatest advocates and suggested to Widforss that he focus his creative attention on America's national parks. It was advice that he took seriously and over time he earned the sobriquet "Painter of the National Parks." In addition to Yosemite and Grand Canyon, Widforss went on to paint in many of the western parks including: Zion, Bryce, Mesa Verde, Yosemite, Crater Lake, Carlsbad Caverns, Sequoia, Death Valley, and Yellowstone. In 1923 Widforss traveled to the Southwest, visiting Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The following year the artist made his only trip to Yellowstone where he made numerous paintings of the spectacular canyon and falls of the Yellowstone River. Although eventually Widforss began to spend more time in the Southwest and at Grand Canyon, he never grew tired of painting California landscapes. His realistic style contrasted sharply with the colorful and broadly brushed paintings of the emerging California School of watercolorists. Widforss won the first prize at the California Watercolor Society's 1928 exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. In March 1929, Widforss presented his most commercially successful exhibit at Gump's, a luxury home furnishing store and gallery in San Francisco where he had been exhibiting regularly since 1921. The exhibit garnered great critical praise. "Gunnar Widforss ranks with the foremost exponents of the art of the water colorist, and yet on examining the paintings one sees that the medium, with this artist, is immaterial. His pictures have the strength and depth of color of oils and the exquisite delicacy of watercolors," wrote one reviewer. Following the success of the 1929 Gump's exhibit, Widforss became a naturalized citizen of the United States, and in October he celebrated his fiftieth birthday at Grand Canyon. Major museum exhibitions of Widforss' work have been rare. The first was presented in December 1924 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The exhibit included 72 watercolors that primarily included scenes of western National parks. William Henry Holmes, the first Director of the National Gallery of Art in Washington. D. C., and an artist also known for his extraordinarily accurate drawings and watercolors, commented on Widforss' Grand Canyon paintings in the exhibit. "They are remarkable as to geological construction and color. They give a more satisfactory understanding of the Grand Canyon than any that have hitherto been attempted. It is well nigh impossible to convey the immensity and grandeur of these marvels of nature but Widforss has accomplished it." Holmes went on to say that "These are some of the finest things of their kind that have come out of the West." In 1926 and 1928 Widforss participated in two exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum of art sponsored by the Society of Scandinavian American Artists. Gunnar Widforss may be the Grand Canyon painter par excellence. He first visited Grand Canyon in 1923 and eventually made his home on the South Rim of the Canyon. While living at Grand Canyon Widforss exchanged paintings with the Fred Harvey Company for a room in one of the employee dormitories and meals at Bright Angel Lodge. The company exhibited his work in the art gallery that for many years was in the lobby of the El Tovar Hotel. Widforss also made strenuous hikes into the Canyon in order to paint and would spend weeks at a time at Phantom Ranch. Grand Canyon photographer Emery Kolb recalled hiking to Plateau Point (thirteen miles round trip) each day for ten days that it took Widforss to complete one of his masterpieces. One of his favorite subjects were the shady groves of aspen trees on the Canyon's North Rim. Preferring to work plein aire, Widforss worked indoors only on rare occasions and in a letter to a friend remarked that it is "much better to sit out in the middle of the scene." Widforss often visited Phoenix and the neighboring small towns when the Valley of the Sun was a rural agricultural region, quite unlike the metropolis of today. He did many paintings of Camelback Mountain in the heart of Phoenix, the dramatic Superstition Mountains east of town and the lush green cottonwood trees that lined irrigation canals and provided shade on the margins of the farm fields. Carolann Smurthwaite, a patron of the arts in the culturally vibrant small city, ran an art gallery in the Phoenix Biltmore and regularly exhibited Widforss' work. In 1933 Widforss was part of a team of artists who created a series of murals depicting national park themes for the 1933-1934 Century of Progress exhibition in Chicago. He worked closely with George Collins who was the Assistant Chief Ranger at Grand Canyon during Widforss' residence there. Collins observed that Widforss was meticulous in his work and able to render the most exacting details and subtle effects of light and shade. "He was impatient with anything mediocre," Collins recalled. While in St. Louis for an exhibit of his work in November 1934, a doctor confirmed that Widforss had a serious heart condition and warned him to move to a lower elevation when he returned to Arizona. He returned to the canyon only to collect his belongings and to say 'farewell' to his friends. It was there on, November 30 th, 1934, that he died suddenly from a heart attack while driving from El Tovar Hotel down to Bright Angel Camp to have lunch. He was buried by his friends in the Grand Canyon South Rim Cemetery by the Shrine of the Ages. Gunnar Widforss left a great legacy and inspiration for the realistic painters of western landscapes that followed his path. The accuracy of his drawing and use of color and his ability to express deep space and atmospheric effects are unrivaled.
Gunnar Widforss, 1879 to 1934, Swedish American, a watercolor painting on paper depicting a Grand Canyon view. Signed lower left and dated 1924. Framed. Gunnar Mauritz Widforss was an artist who specialized in painting subjects from the wilderness in watercolor. Widforss is most frequently associated with landscapes from American National Parks. American Landscape Paintings And Art Collectibles.
(Swedish/California/Arizona, 1879-1934) Bridal Veil Falls, Yosemite, circa 1923, signed lower right "Widforss", inscribed verso "Purchased at Yoseite Valley, July 7-18, 1923", water color on board, sight 5-1.2 x 4 in.; gilt wood frame, 14-1/2 x 12-1/2 in. Provenance: Private Collection, Nashville, Tennessee Note: This painting is included in the Gunnar Widforss Catalogue Raisonné by Alan Petersen as record number 589.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss California, Arizona / Sweden, (1879-1934) Morning, Grand Canyon (Coronado Saddle, Grand Canyon), circa 1934 watercolor on paperboard signed lower right, gilt-framed. Exhibited: Desert Caballeros Western Museum: Gunnar Widforss, Painter of the Parks, 10-1-90 to 11-25-90 This watercolor is listed in Alan Petersen's Catalogue Raisonne on Gunnar Widforss as number 253 under the title Coronado Saddle, Grand Canyon
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss California, Arizona / Sweden, (1879-1934) Fallen Cedar watercolor on paperboard signed lower right, gilt-framed. Exhibited: Desert Caballeros Western Museum: Gunnar Widforss, Painter of the Parks, 10-1-90 to 11-25-90 This watercolor is included in Alan Petersen's Catalogue Raisonne on Gunnar Widforss as number 632 under the title "Monterey Cedars"
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss California, Arizona / Sweden, (1879-1934) Taos Pueblo, circa 1927 watercolor on paperboard signed lower left, gilt-framed. This watercolor is listed as number 629 in Alan Petersen's catalogue raisonne of Gunnar Widforss works.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss California, Arizona / Sweden, (1879-1934) Sierra Cliff, 1928 watercolor on paperboard signed lower left, gilt-framed. Exhibited: California Watercolor Society, Los Angeles Museum of History, Science and Art (now the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History), Los Angeles, California Watercolor Society Annual Exhibition, November 28, 1928, no. 91, as Sierra Cliff. This watercolor won first prize, a cash prize of $50, in the 1928 exhibition. Desert Caballeros Western Museum: Gunnar Widforss, Painter of the Parks, 10-1-90 to 11-25-90 with the title: Half Dome at Yosemite This watercolor is included in Alan Petersen's Catalogue Raisonne of Gunnar Widforss works as number 554 under the title "Sierra Cliff" with alternate title "Cathedral Rock, Yosemite"
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879 â 1934) Watercolor Kebnekaise Mountain Sweden 1918. Widforss is most noted for his watercolors of Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. This watercolor was painted towards the end of WWI while Widforss was in Sweden. He returned to America and in 1921 discovered Yosemite. His great watercolor paintings hang in the famous Ahwanee Hotel in Yosemite. Tim Holton custom walnut frame. 15.25"w x 8.75"h. Frame 21"w x 14"h. Spend $7500 or more at our two day auction and all of your SHIPPING IS FREE within the lower 48 states. SHIPPING We box and ship ourselves, to keep shipping costs low. We do not use a packaging service, unless the customer prefers us to use them. We can ship either USPS or Fed Ex Ground. We deliver most larger pieces ourselves on the west coast and we make a loop around the US within approximately 60 days after the auction. No matter where you live in the lower 48 states, we look forward to personally meeting you and delivering larger pieces directly to your house. Most larger pieces can be hand delivered for $500-$600 almost anywhere in the lower 48 states. For estimated shipping times of larger pieces, please call or email us before you bid. Spend $7500 or more at our two day auction and all of your SHIPPING IS FREE within the lower 48 states. SHIPPING We box and ship ourselves, to keep shipping costs low. We do not use a packaging service, unless the customer prefers us to use them. We can ship either USPS or Fed Ex Ground. We deliver most larger pieces ourselves on the west coast and we make a loop around the US within approximately 60 days after the auction. No matter where you live in the lower 48 states, we look forward to personally meeting you and delivering larger pieces directly to your house. Most larger pieces can be hand delivered for $500-$600 almost anywhere in the lower 48 states. For estimated shipping times of larger pieces, please call or email us before you bid.
Gunnar Widforss Untitled watercolor on paper 4.5 h x 10 w in (11 x 25 cm) Signed to lower right 'Widforss'. This work will ship from Lambertville, New Jersey.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss, Swedish American, 1879 to 1934, watercolor painting on paper depicting a natural landscape, 1921. Signed by the artist lower right and dated. Matted and framed. Gunnar Widforss was an artist who specialized in painting subjects from the wilderness in watercolor. Widforss is most frequently associated with landscapes from American National Parks. Antique American Paintings And Art Collectibles.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879-1934) - Grand Canyon. Framed dimensions 25.5" x 22.75", unframed dimensions 19" x 17". Old tag on reverse of J.N. Bartifield out of NYC. Professionally framed with UV protection Plexi.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879-1934) Watercolor Kebnekaise Mountain Sweden 1918. Widforss is most noted for his watercolors of Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. This watercolor was painted towards the end of WWI while Widforss was in Sweden. He returned to America and in 1921 discovered Yosemite. His great watercolor paintings hang in the famous Ahwanee Hotel in Yosemite. Tim Holton custom walnut frame. 15.25"w x 8.75"h. Frame 21"w x 14"h. Spend $7500 or more at this auction and all of your SHIPPING IS FREE within the lower 48 states. SHIPPING We box and ship ourselves, to keep shipping costs low. We do not use a packaging service, unless the customer prefers us to use them. We can ship either USPS or Fed Ex Ground. We deliver most larger pieces ourselves on the west coast and we make a loop around the US within approximately 60 days after the auction. No matter where you live in the lower 48 states, we look forward to personally meeting you and delivering larger pieces directly to your house. Most larger pieces can be hand delivered for $500-$600 almost anywhere in the lower 48 states. For estimated shipping times of larger pieces, please call or email us before you bid.
Gunnar Widforss (American 1879-1934), watercolor titled Rocks and Cliffs Zion National Park, Utah, signed lower left and dated 1923, 14 1/4" x 16 3/4". Provenance: Theophil Fritzen, San Francisco, friend of the artist, then by descent in the family. Literature: Alan Petersen, Gunnar Widforss Catalogue Raisonné, no. 582. Competitive in-house shipping is available for this lot.
Gunnar Widforss (American 1879-1934), watercolor titled Redwoods, Humboldt County, California near Scotia, ca. 1925, signed lower right, 30" x 24". Provenance: Theophil Fritzen, San Francisco, friend of the artist, then by descent in the family. Exhibited San Francisco Museum of Art, 1939. Literature: Alan Petersen, Gunnar Widforss Catalogue Raisonné, no. 581.
Gunnar Widforss (Swedish/American, 1879-1934), Yosemite Valley Snow Scene, 1923, watercolor on paper, signed and dated lower right, sheet: 12.25" h x 17.25"w, overall (with frame): 18"h x 22.75"w. Note: This work is included in the Museum of Northern Arizona Gunnar Widforss Catalogue Raisonne Project, no. 579. Clars is grateful to Alan Petersen for authenticating this work.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (American / California 1879-1934), "Mountain Landscape" watercolor on paper board, depicting a mountain landscape with a camp the in the foreground and train tracks going through the mountain in the background, signed at lower left, unframed. Approximate dimensions: h. 9.5", w. 16.5".
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879-1934) Watercolor Kebnekaise Mountain Sweden 1918. Widforss is most noted for his watercolors of Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. This watercolor was painted towards the end of WWI while Widforss was in Sweden. He returned to America and in 1921 discovered Yosemite. His great watercolor paintings hang in the famous Ahwanee Hotel in Yosemite. Tim Holton custom walnut frame. 15.25"w x 8.75"h. Frame 21"w x 14"h. Spend $5000 or more at this auction and all of your SHIPPING IS FREE within the lower 48 states. SHIPPING We box and ship ourselves, to keep shipping costs low. We do not use a packaging service, unless the customer prefers us to use them. We can ship either USPS or Fed Ex Ground. We deliver most larger pieces ourselves on the west coast and we make a loop around the US within approximately 60 days after the auction. No matter where you live in the lower 48 states, we look forward to personally meeting you and delivering larger pieces directly to your house. Most larger pieces can be hand delivered for $300 almost anywhere in the lower 48 states. For estimated shipping times of larger pieces, please call or email us before you bid.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879 - 1934) Watercolor on Paper, Signed, Measeures ( 11x 9.5 inches) w/frame (16.5 x 14.5 inches) Gunnar Mauritz Widforss was born in Stockholm, Sweden on October 21, 1879 the third of thirteen children. His father, Mauritz, owned a firearm and hunting shop. Widforss' mother, Blenda, had studied art at The Technical School (now Konstfack) and was a noted amateur painter. When he was sixteen years old Widforss would begin his training to become a painter and muralist at the same school. Following the completion of his studies at the Technical School in 1900, Widforss traveled to St. Petersburg Russia to work as an apprentice decorative painter. He returned home approximately two years later and then embarked on an extended period of travel around Europe and America. Widforss worked primarily in watercolor, and he led a bohemian lifestyle traveling in search of great landscapes to paint. Between 1904 and 1909, he ventured to Austria, Switzerland, the Mediterranean region and North Africa. From 1906 to 1907 he visited the United State
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934) Half Dome from Glacier Point, Yosemite Valley signed and dated 'Widforss -1921-' (lower right) watercolor on paper sight 14 1/2 x 17 1/2 in. framed 24 x 27 in.
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934) From Troundjeim (sic) Norway signed and dated 'Widforss. 1919.' (lower left) and titled and numbered '2' (on the reverse) watercolor on paper sheet 13 3/4 x 19 1/4 in. framed 16 1/2 x 22 in.
WIDFORSS, Gunnar (1879-1934). Untitled, Monterey [California] Landscape. Watercolor on paper. Signed and Dated "Widforss, 1925". 13" x 16 1/2" visible, 22 1/2" x 25 1/2" framed. Gunnar Widforss left a great legacy and inspiration for realistic painters of western landscapes that followed in his path. The accuracy of his drawing and use of color and his ability to express deep space and atmospheric effects are unrivaled. In his commitment to the truth and beauty of his subject, Widforss never resorted to sentimental or romanticized depictions, so prevalent in depictions of the West.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879-1934) Watercolor Kebnekaise Mountain Sweden 1918. Widforss is most noted for his watercolors of Yosemite and the Grand Canyon. This watercolor was painted towards the end of WWI while Widforss was in Sweden. He returned to America and in 1921 discovered Yosemite. His great watercolor paintings hang in the famous Ahwanee Hotel in Yosemite. Tim Holton custom walnut frame. 15.25w x 8.75h. Frame 21w x 14h. Spend $5000 or more at this auction and all of your SHIPPING IS FREE within the lower 48 states. SHIPPING We box and ship ourselves, to keep shipping costs low. We do not use a packaging service, unless the customer prefers us to use them. We can ship either USPS or Fed Ex Ground. We deliver most larger pieces ourselves on the west coast and we make a loop around the US within approximately 60 days after the auction. No matter where you live in the lower 48 states, we look forward to personally meeting you and delivering larger pieces directly to your house. Most larger pieces can be hand delivered for $300 almost anywhere in the lower 48 states. For estimated shipping times of larger pieces, please call or email us before you bid.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss, Straßenszene idyllische Kleinstadtszene im hellen Sonnenlicht, seltenes Beispiel aus Widforss Wanderjahren in Europa, atmosphärisch gekonnt erfasste Vedutenmalerei in lichter Farbigkeit, Aquarell auf Papier, links unten signiert und datiert "G. Widforss 1912", etwas lichtrandig und geblichen, original hinter Glas und Passepartout gerahmt, Passepartoutausschnitt ca. 42 x 30 cm. Künstlerinfo: eigentlich Gunnar Mauritz Widforss, auch Widfors, schwedisch-us-amerikanischer Aquarellmaler und Illustrator (1879 Stockholm bis 1934 bei Grand Canyon Village), Sohn des Inhabers eines Jagdausstattergeschäfts Mauritz Widforss (1836-1905), dem späteren "Hennes & Mauritz (H & M)", studierte ab 1896 an der Kunst- und Designschule "Konstfack" und schließlich bis 1900 an der Königlichen Technischen Hochschule in Stockholm, 1900 Studienreise nach St. Petersburg, hier bis 1902 Ausbildung zum Dekorationsmaler und Kirchenrestaurator, anschließend unstetes Wanderleben durch Europa und Amerika, 1904-08 und 1909-12 Aufenthalte in Österreich, der Schweiz, in Nordafrika und im Mittelmeerraum, 1906-07 zeitweise in den USA (Jacksonville/Florida und Brooklyn/New York), 1908-09 in Schweden, um 1912 an der französischen Riviera, beschickte 1912 den Pariser Salon, wo König Gustaf V. von Schweden und Erzherzog Franz Ferdinand von Österreich Werke des Künstlers erwarben, 1913 Studium an der Académie Colarossi in Paris, Ende 1920 Antritt einer Weltreise nach Japan und den Orient, wegen fehlender finanzieller Mittel blieb er ab Februar 1921 zunächst auf Catalina Island und später in San Francisco Kalifornien/USA, 1929 Annahme der amerikanischen Staatsbürgerschaft, ab März 1921 bis 1928 halbjährliche Aufenthalte im Yosemite Valley, hier Förderung durch den Direktor des Nationalparks Stephen Tyng Mather, der Widforss vorschlug die amerikanischen Nationalparks in seinen Aquarellen festzuhalten, 1923 erster Aufenthalt im Grand-Canyon-Nationalpark/Arizona, im Zion-Nationalpark/Utah und im Der Bryce Canyon National Park/Utah, 1924 im Yellowstone Nationalpark, beschickte ab 1921 Ausstellungen in San Francisco (Rabjohn & Morcom Gallery), Carmel-by-the-Sea, Los Angeles (Stendahl Galleries uned California Water Color Society), 1924 erste Personalausstellung in der National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., 1926 und 1928 beschickte er Ausstellungen des Brooklyn Museum of Art New York, Mitglied der California Watercolour Society und Scandinavian American Artists, um 1930 in San Francisco ansässig, betrieb schließlich ein Atelier am Südrand des Grand Canyon in der Nähe von Grand Canyon Village, Quelle: Saur "Bio-Bibliographisches Künstlerlexikon", Artikel von Alan Petersen und Artikel von Karin Sammartino zum Künstler, englische Wikipedia und Internet.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (American, 1879-1934) The harbour at Menton, France signed and dated 'G Widforss -1913-' (lower left) watercolour 36.2 x 46.4cm (14 1/4 x 18 1/4in).
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934) "Yosemite in Winter" Watercolor on paper Unsigned; titled by repute Sight: 15.5" H x 12.5" W; Sheet: 16" H x 13" W Notes: There is a letter of authentication signed by the administrator of the artist's estate, Daniel McDade, dated August 9, 1937 verso.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879 - 1934) "Yosemite Valley With El Capitan from Sentinel Rock" Watercolor on Board. This work is listed in the Gunnar Widforss Catalogue Raisonne Project as No. 133. Gunnar Widforss was born in Stockholm, Sweden in 1879. He studied to be a muralist at the Stockholm Institute of Technology from 1895-1900. Following his studies, Widforss earned great acclaim in his native land, and used the proceeds from his sales to European royalty to finance his wanderlust and world travels. In 1921 Widforss moved to San Francisco, after what he'd intended to be a short visit. Travelling extensively through northern California and the American southwest, Widforss found his greatest inspiration in the National parks he found along the way including Yosemite. With its monolithic granite walls and shady groves, Yosemite became another one of Widforss' major subjects. Widforss made many friends In Yosemite including Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service. Mather became one of the artist's greatest advocates and suggested to Widforss that he focus his creative attention on America's national parks. It was advice that he took seriously and over time he earned the sobriquet "Painter of the National Parks." Gunnar was a member of the California Watercolor Society and Scandinavian American Artists. Though a great many of his works from these travels hang today in Yosemite Valley's Ahwanee Lodge, his works are also in many important private collections, and museums such as the Museum of Northern Arizona. Artist: Gunnar Widforss Title: "Yosemite Valley" Medium: Watercolor on Board Circa/Year: 1921 Signature Type: Unsigned Site Measurement: 18.25 x 14.25 in. Keywords: Southwestern, Western, California; Ref: BD1668
ARTIST: Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (California, Arizona, Swedish, 1879 - 1934) NAME: Indian Village YEAR: 1930 MEDIUM: watercolor on paper CONDITION: Minor age toning. Framed under glass. SIGHT SIZE: 13 x 18 inches / 33 x 45 cm FRAME SIZE: 15 x 20 inches / 38 x 50 cm SIGNATURE: lower left NOTE: the painting was authentificated by Alan Petersen, developer of Gunnar Widforss Catalog Raisonne. CATEGORY: antique vintage painting AD: ART CONSIGNMENTS WANTED. CONTACT US SKU#: 119410 US Shipping $60 + insurance. BIOGRAPHY: Gunnar Mauritz Widforss was born in Stockholm, Sweden on October 21, 1879 the third of thirteen children. His father, Mauritz, owned a firearm and hunting shop. Widforss' mother, Blenda, had studied art at The Technical School (now Konstfack) and was a noted amateur painter. When he was sixteen years old Widforss would begin his training to become a painter and muralist at the same school.Following the completion of his studies at the Technical School in 1900, Widforss traveled to St. Petersburg Russia to work as an apprentice decorative painter. He returned home approximately two years later and then embarked on an extended period of travel around Europe and America. Widforss worked primarily in watercolor, and he led a bohemian lifestyle traveling in search of great landscapes to paint. Between 1904 and 1909, he ventured to Austria, Switzerland, the Mediterranean region and North Africa. From 1906 to 1907 he visited the United States where he resided in Jacksonville, Florida and later Brooklyn, New York doing odd jobs and paintings on commission.When he was in his mid-thirties Widforss began to gain recognition for his work. Two of his watercolors of the French Riviera were accepted into the Paris Salon of 1912, and King Gustaf V of Sweden acquired six Widforss works. The upheaval of the First World War forced a hiatus on his travels. At the conclusion of the war Widforss resumed his wandering lifestyle throughout Europe. He also had hopes of painting the exotic landscapes of the Orient, but in early 1921 as he traveled across America en route to Japan his funds ran out.Widforss arrived in California and spent most of February 1921 painting the idyllic seaside views of Catalina Island. He continued exploring the California coast and made many paintings of the dramatic scenery and atmospheric effects found in these newly discovered landscapes. Earlier in his career Widforss had established a pattern of working at popular destinations for tourists where he could be assured of sales. This is a pattern that he followed after his arrival in the West.Soon after arriving in California Widforss made his way to Yosemite Valley. He first visited there in March 1921 and made it a semi-regular home until around 1928. With its monolithic granite walls and shady groves, Yosemite became another one of Widforss' major subjects. As with Grand Canyon, which would eventually become his most favored subject, Yosemite offered the dynamic visual contrast of architectural rock formations and deep atmospheric space -- two elements that Widforss was able to capture with captivating accuracy.Widforss made many friends In Yosemite including Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service. Mather became one of the artist's greatest advocates and suggested to Widforss that he focus his creative attention on America's national parks. It was advice that he took seriously and over time he earned the sobriquet "Painter of the National Parks." In addition to Yosemite and Grand Canyon, Widforss went on to paint in many of the western parks including: Zion, Bryce, Mesa Verde, Yosemite, Crater Lake, Carlsbad Caverns, Sequoia, Death Valley, and Yellowstone.In 1923 Widforss traveled to the Southwest, visiting Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The following year the artist made his only trip to Yellowstone where he made numerous paintings of the spectacular canyon and falls of the Yellowstone River.Although eventually Widforss began to spend more time in the Southwest and at Grand Canyon, he never grew tired of painting California landscapes. His realistic style contrasted sharply with the colorful and broadly brushed paintings of the emerging California School of watercolorists. Widforss won the first prize at the California Watercolor Society's 1928 exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. In March 1929, Widforss presented his most commercially successful exhibit at Gump's, a luxury home furnishing store and gallery in San Francisco where he had been exhibiting regularly since 1921. The exhibit garnered great critical praise. "Gunnar Widforss ranks with the foremost exponents of the art of the water colorist, and yet on examining the paintings one sees that the medium, with this artist, is immaterial. His pictures have the strength and depth of color of oils and the exquisite delicacy of watercolors," wrote one reviewer. Following the success of the 1929 Gump's exhibit, Widforss became a naturalized citizen of the United States, and in October he celebrated his fiftieth birthday at Grand Canyon.Major museum exhibitions of Widforss' work have been rare. The first was presented in December 1924 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The exhibit included 72 watercolors that primarily included scenes of western National parks. William Henry Holmes, the first Director of the National Gallery of Art in Washington. D. C., and an artist also known for his extraordinarily accurate drawings and watercolors, commented on Widforss' Grand Canyon paintings in the exhibit. "They are remarkable as to geological construction and color. They give a more satisfactory understanding of the Grand Canyon than any that have hitherto been attempted. It is well nigh impossible to convey the immensity and grandeur of these marvels of nature but Widforss has accomplished it." Holmes went on to say that "These are some of the finest things of their kind that have come out of the West." In 1926 and 1928 Widforss participated in two exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum of art sponsored by the Society of Scandinavian American Artists.Gunnar Widforss may be the Grand Canyon painter par excellence. He first visited Grand Canyon in 1923 and eventually made his home on the South Rim of the Canyon. While living at Grand Canyon Widforss exchanged paintings with the Fred Harvey Company for a room in one of the employee dormitories and meals at Bright Angel Lodge. The company exhibited his work in the art gallery that for many years was in the lobby of the El Tovar Hotel. Widforss also made strenuous hikes into the Canyon in order to paint and would spend weeks at a time at Phantom Ranch. Grand Canyon photographer Emery Kolb recalled hiking to Plateau Point (thirteen miles round trip) each day for ten days that it took Widforss to complete one of his masterpieces. One of his favorite subjects were the shady groves of aspen trees on the Canyon's North Rim. Preferring to work plein aire, Widforss worked indoors only on rare occasions and in a letter to a friend remarked that it is "much better to sit out in the middle of the scene."Widforss often visited Phoenix and the neighboring small towns when the Valley of the Sun was a rural agricultural region, quite unlike the metropolis of today. He did many paintings of Camelback Mountain in the heart of Phoenix, the dramatic Superstition Mountains east of town and the lush green cottonwood trees that lined irrigation canals and provided shade on the margins of the farm fields. Carolann Smurthwaite, a patron of the arts in the culturally vibrant small city, ran an art gallery in the Phoenix Biltmore and regularly exhibited Widforss' work.In 1933 Widforss was part of a team of artists who created a series of murals depicting national park themes for the 1933-1934 Century of Progress exhibition in Chicago. He worked closely with George Collins who was the Assistant Chief Ranger at Grand Canyon during Widforss' residence there. Collins observed that Widforss was meticulous in his work and able to render the most exacting details and subtle effects of light and shade. "He was impatient with anything mediocre," Collins recalled.While in St. Louis for an exhibit of his work in November 1934, a doctor confirmed that Widforss had a serious heart condition and warned him to move to a lower elevation when he returned to Arizona. He returned to the canyon only to collect his belongings and to say 'farewell' to his friends. It was there on, November 30 th, 1934, that he died suddenly from a heart attack while driving from El Tovar Hotel down to Bright Angel Camp to have lunch. He was buried by his friends in the Grand Canyon South Rim Cemetery by the Shrine of the Ages.Gunnar Widforss left a great legacy and inspiration for the realistic painters of western landscapes that followed his path. The accuracy of his drawing and use of color and his ability to express deep space and atmospheric effects are unrivaled.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss, Straßenszene idyllische Kleinstadtszene im hellen Sonnenlicht, seltenes Beispiel aus Widforss Wanderjahren in Europa, atmosphärisch gekonnt erfasste Vedutenmalerei in lichter Farbigkeit, Aquarell auf Papier, links unten signiert und datiert "G. Widforss 1912", etwas lichtrandig und geblichen, original hinter Glas und Passepartout gerahmt, Passepartoutausschnitt ca. 42 x 30 cm. Künstlerinfo: eigentlich Gunnar Mauritz Widforss, auch Widfors, schwedisch-us-amerikanischer Aquarellmaler und Illustrator (1879 Stockholm bis 1934 bei Grand Canyon Village), Sohn des Inhabers eines Jagdausstattergeschäfts Mauritz Widforss (1836–1905), dem späteren "Hennes & Mauritz (H & M)", studierte ab 1896 an der Kunst- und Designschule "Konstfack" und schließlich bis 1900 an der Königlichen Technischen Hochschule in Stockholm, 1900 Studienreise nach St. Petersburg, hier bis 1902 Ausbildung zum Dekorationsmaler und Kirchenrestaurator, anschließend unstetes Wanderleben durch Europa und Amerika, 1904–08 und 1909–12 Aufenthalte in Österreich, der Schweiz, in Nordafrika und im Mittelmeerraum, 1906–07 zeitweise in den USA (Jacksonville/Florida und Brooklyn/New York), 1908–09 in Schweden, um 1912 an der französischen Riviera, beschickte 1912 den Pariser Salon, wo König Gustaf V. von Schweden und Erzherzog Franz Ferdinand von Österreich Werke des Künstlers erwarben, 1913 Studium an der Académie Colarossi in Paris, Ende 1920 Antritt einer Weltreise nach Japan und den Orient, wegen fehlender finanzieller Mittel blieb er ab Februar 1921 zunächst auf Catalina Island und später in San Francisco Kalifornien/USA, 1929 Annahme der amerikanischen Staatsbürgerschaft, ab März 1921 bis 1928 halbjährliche Aufenthalte im Yosemite Valley, hier Förderung durch den Direktor des Nationalparks Stephen Tyng Mather, der Widforss vorschlug die amerikanischen Nationalparks in seinen Aquarellen festzuhalten, 1923 erster Aufenthalt im Grand-Canyon-Nationalpark/Arizona, im Zion-Nationalpark/Utah und im Der Bryce Canyon National Park/Utah, 1924 im Yellowstone Nationalpark, beschickte ab 1921 Ausstellungen in San Francisco (Rabjohn & Morcom Gallery), Carmel-by-the-Sea, Los Angeles (Stendahl Galleries uned California Water Color Society), 1924 erste Personalausstellung in der National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., 1926 und 1928 beschickte er Ausstellungen des Brooklyn Museum of Art New York, Mitglied der California Watercolour Society und Scandinavian American Artists, um 1930 in San Francisco ansässig, betrieb schließlich ein Atelier am Südrand des Grand Canyon in der Nähe von Grand Canyon Village, Quelle: Saur "Bio-Bibliographisches Künstlerlexikon", Artikel von Alan Petersen und Artikel von Karin Sammartino zum Künstler, englische Wikipedia und Internet.
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934, Grand Canyon, AZ) "Mountain Landscape," 1928 Watercolor on paper under glass Signed and dated lower left: Widforss; titled by repute 10" H x 14" W Provenance: Property from a Private Southern California Estate
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934, Grand Canyon, AZ) "Old Houses, Stockholm," 1915 Watercolor on paper under glass Signed and dated lower right: Widforss; titled on an exhibition label affixed to the verso of a previous backboard now attached to the frame's backing paper Image/Sheet: 13.125" H x 18" W Provenance: T. L. Fritzen of San Francisco, as of July, 1939 Property from a Private Southern California Estate Exhibitions: San Francisco, San Francisco Museum of Art, "Swedish-American Exhibition," July 29-August 5, 1939 Notes: Pencil notations at the verso of the upper sheet edge appear to read: Ny Forget 45 / Stockholm / 3-26-27
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934) Catalina Island signed and dated 'Widforss - 1921' (lower left) and numbered, titled and dated 'No. 8 / 12' (on the reverse) watercolor on paper 17 1/2 x 13 1/2 in. framed 22 1/4 x 18 1/2 in. For further information on this lot please visit the Bonhams website
Gunnar Widforss (1879-1934) Early Morning Yosemite signed, inscribed and dated 'Widforss - Yosemite - 1922 -' (lower left) and titled (on the original backing paper) watercolor on paper 18 1/2 x 13 1/2 in. framed 23 1/4 x 18 1/2 in. For further information on this lot please visit the Bonhams website
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (1879 - 1934) American (Yosemite Valley) , Watercolor / Paper , Signed Lower Left , measures 13.5" x 9.5" private collection in Canada
ARTIST: Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (California, Arizona, Swedish, 1879 - 1934) NAME: Indian Village YEAR: 1930 MEDIUM: watercolor on paper CONDITION: Minor age toning. Framed under glass. SIGHT SIZE: 13 x 18 inches / 33 x 45 cm FRAME SIZE: 15 x 20 inches / 38 x 50 cm SIGNATURE: lower left NOTE: the painting was authentificated by Alan Petersen, developer of Gunnar Widforss Catalog Raisonne. CATEGORY: antique vintage painting AD: ART CONSIGNMENTS WANTED. CONTACT US SKU#: 119410 US Shipping $60 + insurance. BIOGRAPHY: Gunnar Mauritz Widforss was born in Stockholm, Sweden on October 21, 1879 the third of thirteen children. His father, Mauritz, owned a firearm and hunting shop. Widforss' mother, Blenda, had studied art at The Technical School (now Konstfack) and was a noted amateur painter. When he was sixteen years old Widforss would begin his training to become a painter and muralist at the same school.Following the completion of his studies at the Technical School in 1900, Widforss traveled to St. Petersburg Russia to work as an apprentice decorative painter. He returned home approximately two years later and then embarked on an extended period of travel around Europe and America. Widforss worked primarily in watercolor, and he led a bohemian lifestyle traveling in search of great landscapes to paint. Between 1904 and 1909, he ventured to Austria, Switzerland, the Mediterranean region and North Africa. From 1906 to 1907 he visited the United States where he resided in Jacksonville, Florida and later Brooklyn, New York doing odd jobs and paintings on commission.When he was in his mid-thirties Widforss began to gain recognition for his work. Two of his watercolors of the French Riviera were accepted into the Paris Salon of 1912, and King Gustaf V of Sweden acquired six Widforss works. The upheaval of the First World War forced a hiatus on his travels. At the conclusion of the war Widforss resumed his wandering lifestyle throughout Europe. He also had hopes of painting the exotic landscapes of the Orient, but in early 1921 as he traveled across America en route to Japan his funds ran out.Widforss arrived in California and spent most of February 1921 painting the idyllic seaside views of Catalina Island. He continued exploring the California coast and made many paintings of the dramatic scenery and atmospheric effects found in these newly discovered landscapes. Earlier in his career Widforss had established a pattern of working at popular destinations for tourists where he could be assured of sales. This is a pattern that he followed after his arrival in the West.Soon after arriving in California Widforss made his way to Yosemite Valley. He first visited there in March 1921 and made it a semi-regular home until around 1928. With its monolithic granite walls and shady groves, Yosemite became another one of Widforss' major subjects. As with Grand Canyon, which would eventually become his most favored subject, Yosemite offered the dynamic visual contrast of architectural rock formations and deep atmospheric space -- two elements that Widforss was able to capture with captivating accuracy.Widforss made many friends In Yosemite including Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service. Mather became one of the artist's greatest advocates and suggested to Widforss that he focus his creative attention on America's national parks. It was advice that he took seriously and over time he earned the sobriquet "Painter of the National Parks." In addition to Yosemite and Grand Canyon, Widforss went on to paint in many of the western parks including: Zion, Bryce, Mesa Verde, Yosemite, Crater Lake, Carlsbad Caverns, Sequoia, Death Valley, and Yellowstone.In 1923 Widforss traveled to the Southwest, visiting Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The following year the artist made his only trip to Yellowstone where he made numerous paintings of the spectacular canyon and falls of the Yellowstone River.Although eventually Widforss began to spend more time in the Southwest and at Grand Canyon, he never grew tired of painting California landscapes. His realistic style contrasted sharply with the colorful and broadly brushed paintings of the emerging California School of watercolorists. Widforss won the first prize at the California Watercolor Society's 1928 exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. In March 1929, Widforss presented his most commercially successful exhibit at Gump's, a luxury home furnishing store and gallery in San Francisco where he had been exhibiting regularly since 1921. The exhibit garnered great critical praise. "Gunnar Widforss ranks with the foremost exponents of the art of the water colorist, and yet on examining the paintings one sees that the medium, with this artist, is immaterial. His pictures have the strength and depth of color of oils and the exquisite delicacy of watercolors," wrote one reviewer. Following the success of the 1929 Gump's exhibit, Widforss became a naturalized citizen of the United States, and in October he celebrated his fiftieth birthday at Grand Canyon.Major museum exhibitions of Widforss' work have been rare. The first was presented in December 1924 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The exhibit included 72 watercolors that primarily included scenes of western National parks. William Henry Holmes, the first Director of the National Gallery of Art in Washington. D. C., and an artist also known for his extraordinarily accurate drawings and watercolors, commented on Widforss' Grand Canyon paintings in the exhibit. "They are remarkable as to geological construction and color. They give a more satisfactory understanding of the Grand Canyon than any that have hitherto been attempted. It is well nigh impossible to convey the immensity and grandeur of these marvels of nature but Widforss has accomplished it." Holmes went on to say that "These are some of the finest things of their kind that have come out of the West." In 1926 and 1928 Widforss participated in two exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum of art sponsored by the Society of Scandinavian American Artists.Gunnar Widforss may be the Grand Canyon painter par excellence. He first visited Grand Canyon in 1923 and eventually made his home on the South Rim of the Canyon. While living at Grand Canyon Widforss exchanged paintings with the Fred Harvey Company for a room in one of the employee dormitories and meals at Bright Angel Lodge. The company exhibited his work in the art gallery that for many years was in the lobby of the El Tovar Hotel. Widforss also made strenuous hikes into the Canyon in order to paint and would spend weeks at a time at Phantom Ranch. Grand Canyon photographer Emery Kolb recalled hiking to Plateau Point (thirteen miles round trip) each day for ten days that it took Widforss to complete one of his masterpieces. One of his favorite subjects were the shady groves of aspen trees on the Canyon's North Rim. Preferring to work plein aire, Widforss worked indoors only on rare occasions and in a letter to a friend remarked that it is "much better to sit out in the middle of the scene."Widforss often visited Phoenix and the neighboring small towns when the Valley of the Sun was a rural agricultural region, quite unlike the metropolis of today. He did many paintings of Camelback Mountain in the heart of Phoenix, the dramatic Superstition Mountains east of town and the lush green cottonwood trees that lined irrigation canals and provided shade on the margins of the farm fields. Carolann Smurthwaite, a patron of the arts in the culturally vibrant small city, ran an art gallery in the Phoenix Biltmore and regularly exhibited Widforss' work.In 1933 Widforss was part of a team of artists who created a series of murals depicting national park themes for the 1933-1934 Century of Progress exhibition in Chicago. He worked closely with George Collins who was the Assistant Chief Ranger at Grand Canyon during Widforss' residence there. Collins observed that Widforss was meticulous in his work and able to render the most exacting details and subtle effects of light and shade. "He was impatient with anything mediocre," Collins recalled.While in St. Louis for an exhibit of his work in November 1934, a doctor confirmed that Widforss had a serious heart condition and warned him to move to a lower elevation when he returned to Arizona. He returned to the canyon only to collect his belongings and to say 'farewell' to his friends. It was there on, November 30 th, 1934, that he died suddenly from a heart attack while driving from El Tovar Hotel down to Bright Angel Camp to have lunch. He was buried by his friends in the Grand Canyon South Rim Cemetery by the Shrine of the Ages.Gunnar Widforss left a great legacy and inspiration for the realistic painters of western landscapes that followed his path. The accuracy of his drawing and use of color and his ability to express deep space and atmospheric effects are unrivaled.
ARTIST: Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (California, Arizona, Swedish, 1879 - 1934) NAME: Indian Village YEAR: 1930 MEDIUM: watercolor on paper CONDITION: Minor age toning. Framed under glass. SIGHT SIZE: 13 x 18 inches / 33 x 45 cm FRAME SIZE: 15 x 20 inches / 38 x 50 cm SIGNATURE: lower left NOTE: the painting was authentificated by Alan Petersen, developer of Gunnar Widforss Catalog Raisonne. CATEGORY: antique vintage painting AD: ART CONSIGNMENTS WANTED. CONTACT US SKU#: 119410 US Shipping $60 + insurance. BIOGRAPHY: Gunnar Mauritz Widforss was born in Stockholm, Sweden on October 21, 1879 the third of thirteen children. His father, Mauritz, owned a firearm and hunting shop. Widforss' mother, Blenda, had studied art at The Technical School (now Konstfack) and was a noted amateur painter. When he was sixteen years old Widforss would begin his training to become a painter and muralist at the same school.Following the completion of his studies at the Technical School in 1900, Widforss traveled to St. Petersburg Russia to work as an apprentice decorative painter. He returned home approximately two years later and then embarked on an extended period of travel around Europe and America. Widforss worked primarily in watercolor, and he led a bohemian lifestyle traveling in search of great landscapes to paint. Between 1904 and 1909, he ventured to Austria, Switzerland, the Mediterranean region and North Africa. From 1906 to 1907 he visited the United States where he resided in Jacksonville, Florida and later Brooklyn, New York doing odd jobs and paintings on commission.When he was in his mid-thirties Widforss began to gain recognition for his work. Two of his watercolors of the French Riviera were accepted into the Paris Salon of 1912, and King Gustaf V of Sweden acquired six Widforss works. The upheaval of the First World War forced a hiatus on his travels. At the conclusion of the war Widforss resumed his wandering lifestyle throughout Europe. He also had hopes of painting the exotic landscapes of the Orient, but in early 1921 as he traveled across America en route to Japan his funds ran out.Widforss arrived in California and spent most of February 1921 painting the idyllic seaside views of Catalina Island. He continued exploring the California coast and made many paintings of the dramatic scenery and atmospheric effects found in these newly discovered landscapes. Earlier in his career Widforss had established a pattern of working at popular destinations for tourists where he could be assured of sales. This is a pattern that he followed after his arrival in the West.Soon after arriving in California Widforss made his way to Yosemite Valley. He first visited there in March 1921 and made it a semi-regular home until around 1928. With its monolithic granite walls and shady groves, Yosemite became another one of Widforss' major subjects. As with Grand Canyon, which would eventually become his most favored subject, Yosemite offered the dynamic visual contrast of architectural rock formations and deep atmospheric space -- two elements that Widforss was able to capture with captivating accuracy.Widforss made many friends In Yosemite including Stephen Mather, the first director of the National Park Service. Mather became one of the artist's greatest advocates and suggested to Widforss that he focus his creative attention on America's national parks. It was advice that he took seriously and over time he earned the sobriquet "Painter of the National Parks." In addition to Yosemite and Grand Canyon, Widforss went on to paint in many of the western parks including: Zion, Bryce, Mesa Verde, Yosemite, Crater Lake, Carlsbad Caverns, Sequoia, Death Valley, and Yellowstone.In 1923 Widforss traveled to the Southwest, visiting Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The following year the artist made his only trip to Yellowstone where he made numerous paintings of the spectacular canyon and falls of the Yellowstone River.Although eventually Widforss began to spend more time in the Southwest and at Grand Canyon, he never grew tired of painting California landscapes. His realistic style contrasted sharply with the colorful and broadly brushed paintings of the emerging California School of watercolorists. Widforss won the first prize at the California Watercolor Society's 1928 exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. In March 1929, Widforss presented his most commercially successful exhibit at Gump's, a luxury home furnishing store and gallery in San Francisco where he had been exhibiting regularly since 1921. The exhibit garnered great critical praise. "Gunnar Widforss ranks with the foremost exponents of the art of the water colorist, and yet on examining the paintings one sees that the medium, with this artist, is immaterial. His pictures have the strength and depth of color of oils and the exquisite delicacy of watercolors," wrote one reviewer. Following the success of the 1929 Gump's exhibit, Widforss became a naturalized citizen of the United States, and in October he celebrated his fiftieth birthday at Grand Canyon.Major museum exhibitions of Widforss' work have been rare. The first was presented in December 1924 at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The exhibit included 72 watercolors that primarily included scenes of western National parks. William Henry Holmes, the first Director of the National Gallery of Art in Washington. D. C., and an artist also known for his extraordinarily accurate drawings and watercolors, commented on Widforss' Grand Canyon paintings in the exhibit. "They are remarkable as to geological construction and color. They give a more satisfactory understanding of the Grand Canyon than any that have hitherto been attempted. It is well nigh impossible to convey the immensity and grandeur of these marvels of nature but Widforss has accomplished it." Holmes went on to say that "These are some of the finest things of their kind that have come out of the West." In 1926 and 1928 Widforss participated in two exhibits at the Brooklyn Museum of art sponsored by the Society of Scandinavian American Artists.Gunnar Widforss may be the Grand Canyon painter par excellence. He first visited Grand Canyon in 1923 and eventually made his home on the South Rim of the Canyon. While living at Grand Canyon Widforss exchanged paintings with the Fred Harvey Company for a room in one of the employee dormitories and meals at Bright Angel Lodge. The company exhibited his work in the art gallery that for many years was in the lobby of the El Tovar Hotel. Widforss also made strenuous hikes into the Canyon in order to paint and would spend weeks at a time at Phantom Ranch. Grand Canyon photographer Emery Kolb recalled hiking to Plateau Point (thirteen miles round trip) each day for ten days that it took Widforss to complete one of his masterpieces. One of his favorite subjects were the shady groves of aspen trees on the Canyon's North Rim. Preferring to work plein aire, Widforss worked indoors only on rare occasions and in a letter to a friend remarked that it is "much better to sit out in the middle of the scene."Widforss often visited Phoenix and the neighboring small towns when the Valley of the Sun was a rural agricultural region, quite unlike the metropolis of today. He did many paintings of Camelback Mountain in the heart of Phoenix, the dramatic Superstition Mountains east of town and the lush green cottonwood trees that lined irrigation canals and provided shade on the margins of the farm fields. Carolann Smurthwaite, a patron of the arts in the culturally vibrant small city, ran an art gallery in the Phoenix Biltmore and regularly exhibited Widforss' work.In 1933 Widforss was part of a team of artists who created a series of murals depicting national park themes for the 1933-1934 Century of Progress exhibition in Chicago. He worked closely with George Collins who was the Assistant Chief Ranger at Grand Canyon during Widforss' residence there. Collins observed that Widforss was meticulous in his work and able to render the most exacting details and subtle effects of light and shade. "He was impatient with anything mediocre," Collins recalled.While in St. Louis for an exhibit of his work in November 1934, a doctor confirmed that Widforss had a serious heart condition and warned him to move to a lower elevation when he returned to Arizona. He returned to the canyon only to collect his belongings and to say 'farewell' to his friends. It was there on, November 30 th, 1934, that he died suddenly from a heart attack while driving from El Tovar Hotel down to Bright Angel Camp to have lunch. He was buried by his friends in the Grand Canyon South Rim Cemetery by the Shrine of the Ages.Gunnar Widforss left a great legacy and inspiration for the realistic painters of western landscapes that followed his path. The accuracy of his drawing and use of color and his ability to express deep space and atmospheric effects are unrivaled.
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (Swedish/American, 1879-1934) Grand Canyon Desert View Watercolor on board 13-5/8 x 21-1/2 inches (34.6 x 54.6 cm) Signed lower right: Widforss EXHIBITED: Tucson Museum of Art, Tucson, Arizona, "Arizona Collects the West," October 16-December 7, 1983; Desert Caballeros Western Museum, Wickenburg, Arizona," Gunnar Widforss--Painter of the Parks," October 1-November 25, 1990. HID01801242017
Gunnar Mauritz Widforss (American, 1879-1934) Canyon Walls in the Sunlight, 1922 watercolor signed Widforss and dated (lower right) 17 x 13 1/2 inches Provenance: Spanierman Gallery, New York, New York
