Portrait of a Woman Against a Fiery Background
Painting on wrapped canvas • Kathy Corey
Style & Movement
Contemporary Regional Art / Expressive Figuration
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, utilizing direct brushwork, impasto highlights, and monochromatic rendering for the central figure set against a vibrant, expressive abstract background
Creation Period
Late 20th to early 21st century
Dimensions & Format
Medium-scale rectangular format, estimated approximately 20 x 24 inches
Subject Description
A three-quarter profile portrait of a dark-haired woman rendered in monochromatic grayscale tones, positioned dramatically against a swirling, high-energy background composed of warm fiery reds, oranges, and yellows with circular radiating motifs
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good, showing stable paint layers, clean canvas edges, and no significant structural damage or pigment loss
Estimated Market Value
$500 - $1,200
Auction Estimate
$300 - $800
Provenance History
Acquired directly from the artist's studio or local Key West gallery representation, passing through private collections
Art Historical Significance
Representative of regional contemporary portraiture combining realistic figurative elements with expressionistic color palettes, typical of independent working artists in art communities like Key West
Notable Features
Striking visual contrast between the monochromatic, sculptural rendering of the female figure and the luminous, Van Gogh-esque swirling fiery background on a contemporary wrapped canvas support
Condition Issues
Minor surface dust and natural aging of the oil medium; no major cracking, flaking, or previous restoration detected
Conservation Recommendations
Light surface cleaning with a soft dry brush when necessary; display away from direct sunlight and maintain stable indoor humidity and temperature
Collector Notes
Key West Artist Kathy Corey oil on wrapped canvas