Beth Van Hoesen: Magnolia Bud Bookmark

Beth Van Hoesen (American, 1926–2010) Magnolia Bud (detail), 1977

Beth Van Hoesen

In preparation for one of her delicately executed figurative prints, Beth Van Hoesen (American, 1926–2010) sometimes made dozens of drawings. The meticulous San Francisco artist studied with abstract expressionist Clyfford Still and figurative painter David Park, who became a major influence for Van Hoesen. Park inspired her to eschew abstraction for the expressive realism seen in her exquisite florals, still lifes, and animal studies. Over decades of work, she became known for her finely crafted animal and flower prints and personal portraits, which demonstrate striking composition and careful use of texture. She aimed to get to the essence of what she was observing, be it a flower, a rabbit, or an intriguing human, and always in her own crisp, expressive realism. An acknowledged master of drawing and printmaking, Van Hoesen exhibited worldwide and is represented in the collections of major museums, as well as in several artist monographs.