Ross Stefan (Arizona, 1934-1999), "Courting", oil on canvas, signed lower left, signed again, titled, and dated on top stretcher bar, 1965

sight: 22 x 30 in., frame: 31.5 x 39.5 in.

Provenance: Property from a Kerens, Texas collection 

Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Ross Stefan is known for his traditional Western paintings, focusing on Southwestern desert and mountain landscapes as well as typical figures from the region. He held his first solo exhibition at age 13 and was influenced by a studio visit to illustrator Dan Muller. In 1953, Stefan moved to Tucson, Arizona, where his father's advertising career fueled his interest in illustration. He studied art and philosophy at the University of Arizona and sketched for the local newspaper. Inspired by Norman Rockwell and encouraged by art dealer Ivan Rosequist, Stefan left the university to pursue a career as a fine artist.