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Doorway at St. Vincent's, Original Watercolor by Eilene M. Craig 🚪

Name: Doorway at St. Vincent's, Original Watercolor by Eilene M. Craig 🚪
Brand: Wall Antiques
Price: 600.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$600.00

Sale Sold out

Capture a piece of Marin County history with this signed original watercolor by the noted Northern California artist Eilene M. Craig (1922-2009). This charming painting, titled "Doorway at St. Vincent's," is a classic example of the California Watercolor School style. With impeccable provenance provided by the artist herself, this is a special find for collectors of California Scene Painting and regional art.

About the Artwork

This delightful watercolor transports the viewer to the historic grounds of the St. Vincent's School for Boys in San Rafael. The artist focuses on a beautiful, sun-drenched Romanesque archway, masterfully capturing the play of light and shadow on the old stone and terracotta roof tiles. Craig’s technique is characteristic of the California Watercolor School, using confident, fluid brushstrokes and allowing the white of the paper to shine through, creating a sense of brilliant, natural light. The lush foliage and flowering vines surrounding the doorway are rendered in soft, harmonious greens and pinks, adding to the serene and inviting atmosphere of the scene.

About the Artist: Eilene M. Craig (1922-2009)

Eilene M. Craig was a respected and active member of the Northern California art community. A skilled watercolorist, she was a member of the prestigious Society of Western Artists, where she exhibited her work alongside her peers. Craig specialized in capturing the unique landscapes and historic architecture of her home in Marin County and the wider Bay Area. Her work is valued for its technical skill, strong sense of place, and classic California aesthetic. This piece is impeccably documented, with the artist's own business card and handwritten notes affixed to the back, providing a direct and verifiable link to her.

The Era and Its History 📜

The California Watercolor School

Beginning in the 1930s and flourishing through the mid-century, the California Watercolor School became one of the state's most important artistic movements. Artists working in this style were known for their bold, direct approach to watercolor, using it to capture the brilliant light and vibrant lifestyle of the Golden State. Rather than delicate, pale washes, they used strong compositions and rich colors to depict everyday scenes—a style that came to be known as the California Scene. Eilene M. Craig was a skilled practitioner of this tradition, and "Doorway at St. Vincent's" is a perfect example of its focus on light, shadow, and local subjects.

St. Vincent's School for Boys: A Marin Landmark

Founded in 1855, St. Vincent's School for Boys is a designated California Historical Landmark and one of the oldest institutions of its kind west of the Mississippi. Located in Marinwood, just north of San Rafael, its beautiful campus and historic, Romanesque-style buildings have been a beloved subject for Marin County artists for generations. Craig's painting is not just a beautiful work of art; it is a historical record of this important local landmark, capturing a piece of its enduring architectural heritage.

The Ideal Collector 🧑🎨

This painting will appeal to a collector with a deep appreciation for California art and history. The ideal buyer is likely:

A Collector of the California Watercolor School: This is a classic, well-documented example of the movement by a listed member of the Society of Western Artists.
A Historian of Marin County: The painting is a beautiful depiction of a significant local landmark, making it a must-have for anyone passionate about the history of the region.
An Admirer of Architectural Art: The artist's skillful rendering of the Romanesque doorway will appeal to those who love architecture and the interplay of light on historic structures.
Someone Seeking a Touch of Local Charm: For a resident of the Bay Area, this painting offers a special connection to a beloved local institution and the region's rich artistic legacy.

Condition

The artwork is in excellent vintage condition. The watercolor and its matting are clean and bright, showing no signs of fading or damage. The simple, elegant wooden frame has minor wear consistent with its age, which complements the artwork's historical character. The provenance is exceptional, with the artist's contact information and handwritten notes on the verso. Please review all photos carefully.