Blue Crab
Original painting on gallery-wrapped canvas • Barry Shelor (signed lower right)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Expressionism / Coastal Art
Medium & Technique
Acrylic on canvas; expressive wet-on-wet technique with gestural brushwork and palette knife applications
Creation Period
Early 21st century (Continental Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
36 x 40 inches; landscape orientation
Subject Description
A close-up, stylised depiction of a blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) against a vibrant yellow and ochre background. The composition uses energetic, swirling brushstrokes to suggest movement and water, with the crab's shell rendered in iridescent blues, greens, and purples.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; the canvas appears structurally sound with vibrant pigment retention and no visible signs of foxing or craquelure
Estimated Market Value
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$800 - $1,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired directly from the artist or a regional gallery specializing in coastal/marine art; private collection
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of regional American coastal expressionism. Barry Shelor's work is noted for its high-energy color palettes and large-scale marine subjects that bridge the gap between representational wildlife art and abstract expressionism.
Notable Features
Features a prominent artist signature in the lower right corner; noteworthy for its large scale and the 'anthropomorphic' quality of the crab's facial features and eyes
Condition Issues
No significant defects noted from visual inspection; minor surface dust common for contemporary acrylics
Conservation Recommendations
Display away from direct UV light to prevent pigment fading; occasional dusting with a soft, natural hair brush; maintain stable humidity levels
Collector Notes
36x40 Barry Shelor.