This collection of Werner Koepf watercolors includes 16 works. They are in good condition and for the most part only need de-acidification and surface cleaning; a few do have scuff marks that need to be addressed. They are on the smaller size, about 5″ x 7 3/4.” Each watercolor will be matted and framed. We love the playful nature represented in these works combined with their clean, rich color tones, charmingly held by Koepf’s abstract composition choices. Compared to his oil paintings, these works represent a more playful, whimsical take, and they give a deeper look at the imagination of Koepf as several represent variations on the same subject matter. The executions of these works reminds us of Hans Hofmann and Paul Klee. Stay tuned for more…

Werner Koepf was born in Neckarsulum, Baden-Württemberg, Germany and emigrated with his parents and brother to the United States in 1929. During the Great Depression he worked as a house painter. In 1937 his work was prominently mentioned in the New York Times’ review of The Society of Independent Artists 19th Annual Exhibition. With his talent he gained many connections in the art world: Morris Kantor, a trustee of Contemporary Arts arranged three scholarships for Koepf at the Art Students League from 1937-1939, and Daniel Catton Rich, the Director of Fine Arts at the Art Institute of Chicago paved the way for his inclusion in the Institute’s 52nd Annual Exhibition of American Paintings and Sculpture in 1941.

Koepf served in the US Army during World War II. Starting as a translator, between 1942-1945, he was then transferred to the European Theater where he served with the 496th Heavy Automotive Ordnance Company. In November 1945, he returned to the United States and settled in Derby, Connecticut.

In 1952 he was accepted into Yale University where he was awarded the prize for outstanding achievement in the School of Fine Arts for 1952-1953 by Josef Albers. Maintaining his European contacts, Koepf showed numerous paintings, including one man shows in Paris, Stockholm, and Bremen.

Werner Koepf died at his home in March of 1992.