This framed, 34.25" x 51.25" work is an oil on linen painting done by Robert Bonaparte in 1980. The composition features a warm, yellow background that varies in intensity and texture. In the upper left corner, a yellow fan-like shape is seen. A small crescent moon hangs nearby, along with a shooting star, adding celestial symbolism. Moving to the right side, we encounter a white square set against the yellow background. Within this square, black sketches depict contrasting shapes. The shooting star is positioned to the left of this square, and to the left of the shooting star, slightly below the shape seen in the upper left corner, is a figure. The figure is rendered in a minimalist and abstracted style and appears to be wearing an eye mask.
In the vibrant aftermath of WWII, amidst an Oklahoma City blooming with cultural resurgence thanks to New Deal initiatives, a young Robert Bonaparte found his calling alongside his childhood friend and neighbor, Ed Ruscha. While Ruscha's works found global acclaim, Bonaparte's creations remained a treasured secret, known only to a select group of collectors and friends. Born in 1933 in Oklahoma City, Robert Bonaparte emerged as a pivotal yet under-recognized figure in the abstract art scene. From an early age, Bonaparte formed a profound friendship and artistic dialogue with Ed Ruscha, a relationship that would influence both artists' careers. After graduating from the University of Arizona in 1956, Bonaparte's thirst for knowledge took him to Rome, Italy, where he furthered his studies in art, broadening his perspective and technique. In 1959, alongside a cohort of Oklahoma artists, he relocated to California, where his artistic expression flourished. Bonaparte's work, known for its vibrant landscapes and introspective still lifes, has graced galleries worldwide, from Galleria "La Vetrina" in Rome to the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art in Norman, Oklahoma, showcasing his international acclaim and versatility. Despite the quieter recognition compared to his contemporaries, Bonaparte's contributions to the art world are invaluable.
