Figures on a Beach with Red Parasol
Painting on canvas (likely canvas board or stretched canvas) • Signed 'D'ARENZO 05' (Likely contemporary American or European landscape artist)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Impressionism with Expressionist influence; post-painterly abstraction qualities in the reduction of forms.
Medium & Technique
Oil paint using impasto and alla prima techniques; featuring broad, energetic brushstrokes and heavy paint application in highlights.
Creation Period
2005 (inscribed lower right)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches; horizontal landscape format.
Subject Description
A beach scene depicting a figure in a white dress and red hat bending over, situated next to a vibrant red beach umbrella or parasol. The background shows crashing waves and a dark, moody sea/sky horizon. The composition is simplified, focusing on the interplay of high-contrast colors (red, white, dark blue).
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the paint film appears stable with healthy impasto peaks.
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200 (based on regional contemporary artist pricing)
Auction Estimate
$300 - $700
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a local gallery or direct from the studio; no visible historical labels on the front, consistent with a contemporary work.
Art Historical Significance
A modern interpretation of the classical beach genre popular with 19th-century Impressionists (such as Sorolla or Boudin), updated with a more aggressive, modern handling of paint and color economy.
Notable Features
Distinctive wet-on-wet paint handling particularly visible in the white figure and the crests of the waves; bold red parasol acts as a saturated focal point against a muted palette; original signature and date '05 lower right.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dust accumulation; possible light scuffing to the frame edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional surface cleaning to remove dust; display under UV-filtered light and maintain stable humidity (45-55%).