Black Jack
Painting on stretched canvas • Barry Shelor
Style & Movement
Contemporary Abstract Expressionism / Modern Nautical Art
Medium & Technique
Acrylic on canvas; utilizing palette knife application, impasto, scratching/sgraffito, and wet-on-wet blending.
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st Century (Contemporary)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches; Vertical Portrait format
Subject Description
A semi-abstract depiction of a sailing vessel at sea, likely during sunset or sunrise. The composition features two vertical masts/sails rendered with heavy black and dark pigment, contrasted against a vibrant yellow and orange atmospheric background. The foreground suggests a shoreline or reflective water surface using green and turquoise tones.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the canvas appears structurally sound with no visible tears or major paint loss.
Estimated Market Value
$250 - $600 USD
Auction Estimate
$150 - $400 USD
Provenance History
Acquired directly from the artist or through a gallery/art fair. Signed 'Barry Shelor' in the lower right corner.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of regional contemporary nautical abstraction. It reflects the artist's focus on atmospheric light and gestural mark-making, typical of late 20th-century decorative fine art found in coastal or gallery settings.
Notable Features
Distinctive fluid signature in the lower right; significant use of a palette knife to create a jagged, textured effect on the 'sails' which gives the piece a sense of movement and raw energy.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dust accumulation; some slight edge wear consistent with age and display without a frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Light surface cleaning with a soft brush; professional framing under UV-protective glass is recommended to prevent color fading and protect the impasto peaks.
Collector Notes
“Black Jack “ Barry Shelor Artist