Brilliant American Illustrator Bob Peak captures the fury and power of a punch to the face with rapid broad strokes of the brush. Combined with a somber color scheme and gestural brushwork, this painting could be compared to the action painting of Abstract Expressionist Franz Kline, whose quick and wide black rudimentary brushstrokes defined a new era in Modern Art. Unlike Kline, Peak remains rooted in figurative art, but clearly, Peak in 1961 was aware of and pays homage to Kline.
Signed lower right. Artist label on verso with title, size, medium, and date. Unframed on a heavy Gesso Panel that feels like masonite. Looks best when viewed with a direct top light.