First-state Fritz Scholder lithograph “Indian Landscape” [SOLD]

"Indian Landscape" by Fritz Scholder is a striking two-color lithograph from 1974 that redefines traditional depictions of Native American themes. Scholder combines flat colors and abstract forms with a spontaneous drawing style to capture a landscape intertwined with Native identity. The piece juxtaposes natural elements with cross-cultural symbols like a blanket and a parasol umbrella, creating a dynamic and thought-provoking composition. Scholder's postmodern sensibility blends realism with abstraction, challenging conventions and offering a fresh perspective on Native American art. Edition 42/50, signed Scholder in the lower right.

Fritz Scholder (1937-2005), a contemporary American artist of one-quarter Luiseño Indian descent, vowed early in his career never to "paint the Indian." He found traditional Native and Anglo-American portrayals of Native Americans unoriginal and romanticized. An abstract painter with postmodern sensibilities, Scholder moved to Santa Fe in 1964 to teach at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA). Immersed in Native culture and inspired by his students, he broke his vow and began depicting Native Americans in novel, provocative ways.

Born in Minnesota in 1937, Scholder earned a Master's of Fine Arts from the University of Arizona before joining IAIA. His paintings and lithographs from this period remain fresh and exciting, often portraying Native Americans in unconventional, modern contexts. These works stirred controversy but were ultimately seen as honest and open-minded.

In 1970, Scholder became the first New Mexico artist selected by the prestigious Tamarind Institute, producing 92 lithographs and gaining international acclaim. Scholder's influential works as a painter, printmaker, and sculptor are displayed in museums worldwide. He passed away in 2005.

Condition: excellent condition

Provenance: this First-state Fritz Scholder lithograph "Indian Landscape" is from the collection of a Santa Fe resident

Recommended Reading:

- FRITZ SCHOLDER New Paintings and Lithographs

- FRITZ SCHOLDER LITHOGRAPHS text by Clinton Adams

TAGS: Fritz Scholder, Luiseño, Native American art, Santa Fe, lithographs, Albuquerque