Skyline with Three Bottles and Flowers

Literature

Paul Wonner, an artist celebrated for his distinctive style and profound contributions to the art world, captivates audiences with his unique approach to painting. Born in Tucson, Wonner’s early life was marked by a curiosity and affinity for art. He received formal training at the California School of Fine Arts, where he honed his skills and began to develop his distinct artistic voice. Influenced by the Bay Area Figurative Movement and later by the Pop Art and Photorealist movements, Wonner’s style evolved over the years, blending elements of realism with a deep psychological undercurrent.

Paul Wonner’s romantic views of San Francisco are deeply intertwined with his artistic vision and personal experiences in the city. Throughout his career, Wonner’s paintings often reflected his affection for San Francisco, portraying the city through a lens that blended realism with a poetic sensibility.

Through his art, he celebrated the city’s architectural splendor, its diverse inhabitants, and the unique atmosphere that defines San Francisco. His paintings not only capture a visual representation of the city but also evoke an emotional response, inviting viewers to experience San Francisco through his eyes—a place of beauty, nostalgia, and enduring charm. Our example is from a series of Studies for Romantic Views of San Francisco which the artist created in 1980.

Throughout his career, Wonner received numerous accolades and exhibited widely both nationally and internationally. His work can be found in prestigious collections such as the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum, cementing his legacy as a pivotal figure in American art history.