Joseph Smedley, Modernist Male Nude Figurative Painting, 20th Century, Mixed Media

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A striking figurative work by British artist Dr. Joseph Smedley (1922–2016), depicting a standing male nude rendered in a distinctive … Read more A striking figurative work by British artist Dr. Joseph Smedley (1922–2016), depicting a standing male nude rendered in a distinctive modernist style. The composition concentrates closely on the human form, cropping the figure to create an intimate and visually powerful study of the torso, shoulder, arm and upper legs. Smedley uses expressive lines and layered passages of warm ochre, amber, brown, violet and blue to model the body, while cooler turquoise and blue tones provide an atmospheric contrast in the background. Rather than pursuing strict academic realism, the artist explores anatomy through colour, contour and expressive mark-making. The elongated vertical format further emphasises the sculptural qualities of the figure, giving the work a strong architectural presence. Born in Nottingham in 1922, Joseph Smedley developed a diverse artistic practice encompassing portraiture, abstraction, conceptual works, figure and nude studies, animals, architecture and local subjects. His work was exhibited in Britain and internationally, including exhibitions in London, Lincoln, New York and Germany, with works also shown at the Royal Academy. This expressive male nude demonstrates Smedley's particular interest in the human figure and his ability to combine careful anatomical observation with a distinctly modern approach to colour and surface. Presented with a broad dark mount that complements the elongated composition and draws attention towards the figure. A distinctive example of British 20th-century figurative art with considerable decorative presence, particularly suited to modern, contemporary or eclectic interiors. Artist: Dr. Joseph Smedley (1922–2016) Period: 20th Century Suggested Year: Circa 1980 Material: Mixed Media on Paper, Mounted on Board Measurements: Overall: 48.3 x 30.5 cm (19 x 12 in.) Painted surface: 44.5 x 20.3 cm (17.5 x 8 in.) Depth: approximately 1 cm (0.4 in.) Condition: Good vintage condition with minor age-related wear consistent with the medium and age of the work. See less