Three Egrets in Blue Water
Painting on gallery-wrapped canvas • Barry Shelor (signed lower right)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Wildlife Impressionism / Coastal Folk Art influence
Medium & Technique
Acrylic on canvas. The artist utilized expressive, gestural brushwork with visible scumbling in the background and linear strokes to define the plumage. Some impasto is evident in the white highlighted areas.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 36 inches; Landscape format; Gallery-wrapped edges (unframed)
Subject Description
The composition features three Great Egrets or herons in a marshy or coastal setting. Two birds in the foreground have wings partially unfurled in a display or preening motion, while the center bird stands tall in profile. The background consists of vibrant blue water with gold/ochre reed-like accents on the horizon.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent. The canvas appears taut with no visible signs of craquelure, paint loss, or sagging. The colors remain vibrant.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$250 - $500 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired directly from the artist or a regional gallery specializing in coastal or wildlife art. Signed 'Barry Shelor' in the lower right corner.
Art Historical Significance
The work serves as a representative example of contemporary American regional wildlife art. Barry Shelor is known for his depictions of coastal life and nature, utilizing a bright palette that emphasizes the atmospheric quality of light on water.
Notable Features
Distinctive fluid brushwork that creates a sense of movement in the water; the artist's signature is clearly legible in the lower right hand corner; the painting is executed on a modern deep-edge canvas intended for display without a frame.
Condition Issues
None visible based on the provided image; the surface appears clean and structurally sound.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV sunlight to prevent acrylic pigment fading. Professional dusting with a soft brush is recommended; no solvents should be applied.
Collector Notes
Barry Shelor Artist