Artist: Steve Wheeler (American, 1912 - 1992). Title: "Shooting the Rapids". Medium: Mixed media (tempera, watercolor, pen and ink) on paper. Date: Composed c1950. Dimensions: Overall size: 12 x 19 1/4 in. (305 x 489 mm). Lot Note(s): Signed "Wheeler" in ink, lower left. Cream laid paper. Very good condition; a few small skillfully repaired edge tears; paper brittle; pencil tracing and scattered dry brush strokes, verso. Comment(s): Wheeler is often spoken of as one of the least appreciated, but most deserving, of 20th Century American artists. The influence of Arshile Gorky on his oeuvre is often overlooked. Wheeler’s work is increasingly being "discovered," as evidenced by the sale of his painting "W22 (Man Looking at Pork Chop)" at Christie's New York, 05/21/2008, lot #8, at $109,000 (including premium). There has been recent increasing interest in his fine prints as well. Image copyright © The Estate of Steve Wheeler. [30111-3-16000]