Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Alan Shields Biography
Alan J. Shields, born on February 4, 1944, in Herington, Kansas, emerged as a distinctive figure in the American art scene, known for his innovative approach to painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Shields's journey into the world of art was as unconventional as his creations, drawing from a rich tapestry of experiences that spanned from the farmlands of Kansas to the bustling streets of New York City.
Raised on his family's farm, Shields was introduced early to the rhythms of rural life and the practical skills of farming. This upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the materials and methods that would later become central to his artistic practice. Despite initially studying civil engineering at Kansas State University, Shields's passion for art led him to explore studio art and theater, though he never completed his degree. It was during this period that he began experimenting with sewing machines to create intricate drawings in thread, a technique that would become a hallmark of his work.
In 1968, Shields made the pivotal move to New York City, where he quickly became immersed in the contemporary art scene through his gig at Max’s Kansas City, a legendary artist hangout. His unique approach to art-making caught the attention of the Paula Cooper Gallery, which began representing him. Shields's work from this period is characterized by its kaleidoscopic, free-hanging constructions made from unconventional materials sourced from Canal Street. These creations, often adorned with glass beads, wooden dowels, wire, gauze, and zigzag stitching, blurred the lines between painting, sculpture, and craft, challenging traditional gendered divisions in art.
Shields's art is deeply influenced by the counterculture aesthetic of the 1960s and 70s, incorporating elements of tie-dye, love beads, and the vibrant ethos of the era. His work transcends the modernist grid, infusing it with a dynamic, organic quality that reflects his fascination with the curvilinear forms of Buckminster Fuller’s utopian architecture. Through his use of stitched lines, Shields not only constructed his pieces but also used them as a means of drawing, creating multidimensional works that invite viewers to engage with them from multiple perspectives.
Throughout his career, Shields remained committed to exploring the potential of materials, often favoring industrial cotton belting for its durability and flexibility. This choice allowed him to merge the surface and support of painting, pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms. His work, such as "Shape-Up," exemplifies this approach, with its intricate tangles of color and texture that challenge the viewer's perception.
Shields's contributions to the art world were recognized through his inclusion in prestigious exhibitions, including the Whitney and Paris Biennials in 1973. His work has been featured in solo and group exhibitions across the United States and internationally, cementing his legacy as an artist who was both of his time and ahead of it. Notably, his work is part of several public collections, including the Ackland Art Museum, Akron Art Museum, and Dallas Museum of Art, among others.
Alan Shields passed away on December 13, 2005, in Shelter Island, New York, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire and challenge. His artistic legacy is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of art and his relentless pursuit of creativity beyond conventional boundaries. Shields's life and work embody the spirit of innovation, demonstrating how art can emerge from the interplay of diverse experiences and materials, forever altering the landscape of contemporary art.
Alan Shields Quotes and Sales
of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, through which you will be
informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
acquisitions of the art gallery.
You can send us pictures of the work: