Bill Paxton - Signed Original Watercolor: Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad

Description: Bill Paxton was prolific for the time he painted, producing an estimated 1000 or more paintings in watercolors, gouache, oils and acrylics. His subjects were mainly Maine and included boats, planes and trains. He's also known for his depictions of war scenes and some of his paintings are now hanging on the walls of the Pentagon in Washington D.C.. This original, signed watercolor painting shows the Carabassett Depot of the Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes Railroad as it appeared after being revived by local Mainers in the 1970s. "Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes Railroad "SignedFramed in Phippsburg, MaineBill Paxton biography is taped onto frame's paper backingWood (mahogany veneer) Frame: 13.5" X 16.5"Everything is in Excellent condition William (Bill) Paxton 1930—2007 William Paxton, born August 5, 1930 in Lewiston, was one of Maine’s top selling artists. He had a passion for painting and from a young age he was known for his talents in sketching. As a student at Bridgton Academy, he was featured in his yearbook. It states, “When artist Bill picks up his pen, we all stand at attention, for his remarks and pictures are certainly worth mention.” He wanted to pursue a career selling his art, but it was during the time of the Great Depression. Also in his younger years, Paxton had an interest in skiing and won a medal for Second Highest Ski Jump. From there he went to flying and received a certification for Second-in-Command, to fly alongside the captain in a C-46F type of aircraft. He then joined the Air Force in the 40’s, although his passion and talents for art were constant throughout his life. Paxton quickly became the front line military sketch artist. He was a draftsman for the 14th Air Force in the Management Analysis section, holding a position at Robins Air Force Base in Warner Robins, GA. for 22 years. In his spare time, Paxton also did humorous cartoon sketches about Air Force and civilian life. Paxton retired in Maine after his service. He was content living a somewhat hermit-like existence. His passion for art continued with vigor until poor health prevented him from painting. (biography from mainelyart.com) Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes Railroad The Sandy River and Rangeley Lakes Railroad (SR&RL) was a 2 ft. narrow gauge railroad that operated in Maine from 1908 until it was abandoned in 1935. The rails of the 112 miles of track were sold for scrap metal in 1936. In 1970, a group of locals in Phillips, Maine undertook to preserve what remained of the SR&RL' original equipment, and now the railroad operates again, offering rides on a revived, 3 mile segment of the railway. The hand written description at the top on the back of the painting includes the date 1937, but by then the railroad was abandoned and Bill Paxton would have been only 7 years old.

Price: 150 USD

Location: Richmond, Virginia

End Time: 2024-09-07T11:35:58.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD