Keith Alexander

Acquired by current owner's parents, Toronto, circa 1990 

The canvas is unlined. There is a small minor white paint smudge measuring approximately 2-3mm within the centre of the work, to the right hand side of the mountain. There is a small protrusion in the canvas measuring approximately 2mm. to the centre of the bottom framing edge. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals no signs of retouching or repair. Overall, the work appears to be in very good original condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Using a combination of realism and neo-surrealism, Keith Alexander has become known for creating visually dynamic works that challenge the viewer through their interesting and unexpected perspectives. The artist often chooses to represent unusual combinations of features within his works, creating compositions whereby elements often appear out of place within the broader setting. Prompted by his time spent in the Namib, a coastal desert in Southern Africa spanning across South Africa, Namibia and Angola, Alexander became interested in the ephemerality of humankind in the face of nature.

This theme is perfectly illustrated within this present lot. The dominance of nature and the transience of humankind are highlighted by the run down appearance of the building in contrast to the imposing and powerful appearance of the mountain rising out of the rough seas. At the top of what appears to be a very treacherous rocky mountain sits a solitary run down building, a set winding steps creep around the side of the mountain, once used for carrying visitors to the top of the rock form.  In the foreground of the work, we see a man standing at the front of the dock gazing out onto what we assume is the vast ocean that lies in front of him. Surrounded by ocean and presumably completely isolated, it seems unusual that this duo would be found within this setting. Entitled The Recluse, it is unclear as to whether or not Alexander is referring to the building or the man, if not both.