Constantine Cherkas 1919-2011 California art Laguna Beach painting 1958 as-is

Impressionist oil on canvas painting of the much-loved beaches at Laguna Beach, California, signed at lower left by the well-listed Russian-born artist who made his home in the Southwest, CONSTANTINE CHERKAS (1919-2011). The work measures 18" by 24" (25" by 31" framed). Cherkas was born in Moscow and showed unusual early talent. He studied there and later in Vienna and Munich, his life disrupted by World War II, during which he was arrested by the Nazis and sent to a camp. After the war he moved to New Mexico, aided by the Tolstoi Foundation. There, in the Southwest, his talents came to full fruition as he captured in brilliant color the sights of New Mexico and Arizona. Later he settled in Julian, CA near San Diego. During the 1950's Cherkas painted many works featuring the Southern California beaches, including many of Laguna. This work, dated 1958, is from that period. CONDITION: there is a significant amount of flaking and paint loss that will need conservation. Note the large white area at lower left, but there are other flaking areas as the photos illustrate. Nevertheless, the work is poetic and beautiful and well worth the investment in restoration. Titled in pencil "LAGUNA BEACH" on stretcher.