Christian, William J. (Willie) (American/Milwaukee, 1932-1994), Untitled Abstract, c. late 1960s, acrylic on board, signed lower right, 20 x 16 inches, framed 24 x 20 inches. With a newspaper clipping from the Milwaukee Journal dated February 1969 affixed to the verso. The article mentions that he was about to have an exhibition opening at the Wisconsin Correctional Services jail, and that many of the paintings were made while he was in a newly founded federal art-based drug treatment program at an addiction center in Lexington, KY. Christian spent many of his adult years in correctional institutions, but it was behind bars that he developed his artistic gifts. Christian was a founding member of the Milwaukee Inner City Arts Center, and is remembered in that city for his painting of Black Jesus that hung in a downtown window during Christmas time in 1967; the window was promptly shattered by heavy steel bolts. An interesting picture by an artist with a fascinating story, tying together the role that art played in the African-American experience in middle America, drug addiction, rehabilitation and incarceration. See stories about Christian and his obituary on the Milwaukee Black Arts Movement website. In good condition, but with a heavy layer of surface grime. Merchandise will be packed and transported by the purchaser at their own risk and expense. A list of recommended shippers is on our website: https://www.conceptgallery.com/auctions/shipping/ .