James L. Bruch 1960s Abstract Portrait Etching

A portrait etching by the American artist James L. Bruch (1942-2023). Unsigned, this print depicts a male figure with long beard wearing a bowler hat, suit jacket, and bowtie. The etching is displayed in a green-brown mat and a metal frame.

Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, James Bruch (1942-2023) pursued his artistic talents at the University of Notre Dame, graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1964. Thereafter, he received his Master of Fine Arts from the University of Southern California in 1967. While in school, Bruch focused his attention on painting bright scenes and recreating masterworks in pencil. From the ‘70s-’90s, he built his advertising career, garnering recognition for his efforts along the way. Upon retirement, Bruch immediately returned to decades-old ideas of colorful abstraction, which he had reimagined throughout his lifetime.

Bruch started his career designing for Montgomery Ward in Chicago, where he would meet, and settle down with, his wife Amy. He would continue his career at the prestigious institution of Leo Burnett as an art director and later as vice president. Following his retirement from the industry in 1999, Bruch was reinvigorated as an artist. He began to rediscover old concepts from his time in art school, reworking them, painting and repainting layer after layer, no piece ever truly finished in his eyes. He was a very reserved man after his retirement and following the death of his wife. This resulted in his work not being exhibited or sold during his lifetime.

Measurements:

32.5” W x 32.5” H x 0.75” D (frame); 13.25” W x 13.25” H (plate).

Condition notes:

Minor waviness and creasing to paper. Scratches to frame.

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