Brian Shields (BRAAQ) - "Skating on Thin Ice"

Stock Code: 2098 - SOLD

Description: A wonderful winter scene with the local people enjoying a late afternoon skate, set in a Northern town around the mid 20th century - painted by Liverpool artist - Brian Shields.

Further Information: Brian Shields was born in Liverpool in 1951, His father Dennis Shields was a highly regarded artist but on account of having twelve children was unable to support his family through painting alone. Brian's eldest brother pursued a successful career in America as a sculptor. The name 'Ann' after his own signature was his sister who died at the young age of 21 and to whose memory all of his subsequent paintings were dedicated.

The unusual name of 'braaq' is a misspelling of the famous French artist Braque which, on account of his artistic talent as a boy, was his nickname at school. Brian held his first exhibition in 1974. In 1977 he was invited to hold his first of four exhibitions in London's West End. It was after this exhibition that 'The Times' described him as "one of the six most successful artists in England". All Brian's paintings are based, in a humorous way, on his childhood memories of Liverpool. He frequently painted himself as a boy wearing a striped jumper. In 1997 at the age of 46 Brian died, leaving a contribution to the art world which ranks him among the leading artists in the country.

Condition: Excellent. The painting has been lightly cleaned and reframed in a late 20th century style frame.

Country of Origin: England

Artist & Painting: Brian Shields (aka BRAAQ), British (1951-1997) "Skating on Thin Ice" oil on board, circa 1990.

Provenance: Private collection North Yorkshire.

Signed: BRAAQ - Ann (lower left)

Dimensions of Canvas: Height 16.00 inches (40.64cm) Width 20.00 inches (50.80cm)

Price: £19,900