A creative force with a restive, probing mind, Scarlett (1889 - 1984) worked in a variety of artistic fields before becoming a full-time artist. He started-out as a jewellery designer, specialising in the setting of precious stones for his uncle’s jewellery business in his hometown of Guelph, Ontario, Canada and then, for several years, was a set designer in Hollywood. He also produced, directed and wrote theatrical plays. He painted throughout these early years, but experimented with various styles until he met Paul Klee during a business trip to Switzerland in 1923. The older artist’s work inspired him deeply and was the catalyst for a lifelong commitment to abstract or non-objective art from that point on.
[Sotheby’s, New York - Oil on canvas, 124.5 x 121.3 cm]