Nik Krevitsky (1914–1991) Tucson Modernist "Stitchery" Textile Pioneer Rare Abstract Expressionist Painting c.1966

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Mid-Century Abstract Expressionist Painting by Nik Krevitsky (1914–1991) Tucson Modernist "Stitchery" Textile Pioneer c.1966

Offered here is a stunning, vibrant … Read more Mid-Century Abstract Expressionist Painting by Nik Krevitsky (1914–1991) Tucson Modernist "Stitchery" Textile Pioneer c.1966

Offered here is a stunning, vibrant mid-century original abstract painting on high-quality paper by the highly collected Arizona modernist, educator, and pioneer of the postwar fiber art movement, Nathan "Nik" Krevitsky (1914–1991).

This piece brilliantly showcases Krevitsky's signature aesthetic: explosive, rhythmic movement, layered gestural forms, and a bold color palette. For collectors familiar with his celebrated "Stitchery" (textile and fiber art) works, this painting serves as an exciting visual sister-piece. It mimics the same fluid, dynamic energy of his thread "paintings," executing with a brush what he so famously did with a needle.

Medium: Original painting on quality heavyweight paper
Dimensions: 22" W x 16" H (Unframed)
Hand-signed and dated (1966) by the artist in the lower right corner

Very good vintage condition. Bold, bright pigments with no fading. The reverse side features some minor vintage tape residue from a prior mounting, which is completely hidden when framed and does not affect the front of the artwork.

This is an exceptionally rare, ready-to-frame piece of postwar American modernism that will instantly elevate any mid-century modern, bohemian, or contemporary space.

Nathan "Nik" Krevitsky (1914–1991) a monumental figure in mid-century American craft and West Coast Modernism. He was a true renaissance man—acting as a painter, professional dancer, art critic, author, and educator.

Born in Chicago, Krevitsky developed his artistic style in the heart of the Post-WWII Abstract Expressionist movement in New York, where he associated with the iconic New York School. Deeply influenced by modern dance and movement, Krevitsky sought to bring the physical gesture of dance onto the canvas.

In 1956, Krevitsky began experimenting with fiber arts, coining and popularizing a process he called "Stitchery"—a revolutionary approach that treated thread, yarn, and fabric as paint, creating complex, abstract, and heavily textured works. He later relocated to Tucson, Arizona, where he served as the Director of Art Education for the Tucson Unified School District and became a cornerstone of the regional modernist movement. He authored several seminal mid-century art books, including Stitchery: Art and Craft (1966) and Batik: Art and Craft (1964).

Notable Museum Collections & Exhibitions:
Smithsonian Institution: Featured in the landmark 1969 Objects: USA exhibition.
Tucson Museum of Art: Holds several of his signature works in their permanent collection.
Phoenix Art Museum: Host of an early landmark solo exhibition of his fiber art.

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