Writer's Block (Self-Portrait)
Painting on canvas • Attributed to Christopher Remmers (or an artist in the Contemporary Realist/Expressive Figurative circle; reminiscent of the style of late 20th-century expressive portraiture)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Neo-Expressionism / Figurative Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil and mixed media on canvas, employing heavy impasto, palette knife application, and energetic gestural brushwork with some scumbling.
Creation Period
Modern Era, approximately early 21st century (c. 2000–2015)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 48 x 36 inches; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A seated female figure centered in the composition, surrounded by a chaotic scattered floor of books. The subject gazes directly at the viewer with an introspective or weary expression. The background is abstracted with blocks of color, suggesting an attic or studio workspace. The iconography centers on the intellectual burden or the creative process, symbolized by the overwhelming volume of literature.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the thick impasto appears stable with no visible signs of delamination or heat damage.
Estimated Market Value
$4,000 - $8,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$3,000 - $6,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely sourced from a contemporary gallery or direct artist studio sale; no visible historical gallery labels on the front.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the resurgence of figurative painting in the 21st century, blending traditional portraiture with postmodern abstraction. It captures the psychological state of 'creative immersion' typical of the contemporary realist movement.
Notable Features
Heavy use of palette knife work to create 'broken edges' in the floor area; contrast between the more rendered face and the highly abstracted environment.
Condition Issues
Minor surface dust in the ridges of the impasto; possible slight edge wear from previous framing; no significant cracking or pigment loss observed.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning with a soft brush to remove dust from textured areas; display in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV light to prevent color shifts in the lighter pigments.