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Question: William DeShazo Biography
Answer: A Journey from the Desert to the Deep
William DeShazo (1934–2022) was an artist whose life was as adventurous as his canvases. Born in New Mexico and raised on cattle ranches in Arizona, he spent his youth as a bronc and bull rider on the rodeo circuit. However, his life changed when he moved to Southern California and worked as a commercial fisherman out of San Diego. This "no-smoke" experience with the raw power of the Pacific Ocean became his primary inspiration. After receiving formal training at the Laguna School of Fine Arts, DeShazo became obsessed with the glazing techniques of the Old Masters. By applying as many as 30 layers of transparent oils and glazes to his panels, he developed a unique ability to capture "ethereal light"—the precise moment where the sea meets the sky. His work has been featured in Life, Sports Illustrated, and Architectural Digest, and he remains one of the most respected luminist painters of the 20th century.
At Herndon Fine Art, we have been a primary source for the work of William DeShazo for 40 years. Our collection is a vetted selection of Vetted Consignments and Vetted Dealer Networks, featuring his trademarked Ultrachrome releases and rare original oils. Because DeShazo’s technique relies on extreme color saturation and high-gloss finishes, our vetting process is critical. We ensure that every piece meets the archival standards and signature authenticity requirements of our A+ BBB commitment. |
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Question: What is an "Ultrachrome" or "Chromagraph" print?
Answer: "Ultrachrome" is an exclusive DeShazo trademark. These prints utilize a Chromagraph process on a durable polyester-based material (Fuji Supergloss). This process yields maximum color saturation and a high-gloss finish that replicates the depth of his 30-layer oil glazes. For a collector, these are the "Gold Standard" for his reproductions because they offer the best light stability and longevity. |
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Question: Why did DeShazo prefer painting on panels rather than canvas?
Answer: DeShazo preferred oils on panels because they allowed for better preservation and restoration over time. The rigid surface was necessary to support his complex layering and glazing technique. His market reflects this preference for stability; while original oils like Radiance or Hawaii HeaHea have realized gallery prices and replacement values between $15,000 and $40,000, his hand-signed limited editions remain "Blue Chip" staples for marine art collectors. |
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Question: What is the significance of the Wyland-DeShazo collaborations?
Answer: DeShazo frequently collaborated with the legendary Robert Wyland, particularly on sunset scenes where DeShazo would paint the sky and sea while Wyland added marine life. Titles like Sunset Waters are highly collectible as they represent a meeting of two giants in the marine art world. At Herndon Fine Art, we verify these collaborations to ensure the technical descriptions are factually grounded. |
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Question: Why is "Luminous Marine Art" his hallmark?
Answer: DeShazo is known for his "Glowing" ocean and surf scenes, characterized by a deep transparency in the water. Collectors value his ability to paint the "curl" of a wave with internal light. His original oils on canvas (typically 12" x 24") realize auction estimates of $800–$1,800. |
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Question: What is the value of an "Original Oil" vs. a "Giclee"?
Answer: His originals are his primary investment assets. While giclees are popular for residential decor, a signed oil on canvas is the only tier that has shown steady secondary market growth over the last 30 years. |
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Question: Does "Transparency" drive the market?
Answer: Absolutely. For your database, highlight the "Water Clarity" as the technical check. If the water looks "flat" or muddy, it is likely a reproduction and not a fine art original. This "Inner Glow" is what defines a "Classic DeShazo." |
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Question: How do "Vetted Consignment" and "Vetted Dealer Network" listings differ?
Answer: At Herndon Fine Art, we prioritize facts over marketing smoke. Vetted Consignments are pieces sourced from private estates—including those originally sold through the Center Art Gallery, Hawaii—that we have physically inspected for surface integrity. Vetted Dealer Network listings (RH, TAC, or AE) come from our trusted partners. Regardless of the source, our 40-year reputation stands behind every piece. |
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Question: Why should I consult with Herndon Fine Art for a DeShazo purchase?
Answer: Because DeShazo’s Ultrachrome prints have a high-gloss finish, they are susceptible to surface scuffs and "dimples" if handled improperly. We use our 40 years of experience to check for these technical flaws and verify the signature location (usually lower right). We don't do "shopping cart" sales; we want to talk with you directly to discuss the specific "luminous" quality and history of the piece you are acquiring. |
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1. EVERY piece of art receives my personal verification of condition and authentication.
2. I WILL NOT ship artwork that isn't in a condition I would accept into my own collection.
3. An A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau
***** ALL PRICES are set by each Seller based on their Unique Motivation to Sell ***** We have a low commission structure of only
25% above each Seller's asking price or a $minimum commission. This allows us to provide buyers with the best price, sellers a better opportunity to sell, and still keep the lights on. In almost all cases, artwork is shipped unframed (UNLESS The ARTWORK IS ON CANVAS or 3-DIMENSIONAL), as I need to personally verify the artworks' authenticity and condition. Artwork that is shipped Framed is shipped framed to protect the work during shipping. Framing is considered USED
NOTE: Inventory is continuously changing so view your favorite artists pages often. For information on having your inventory added to our Website, contact us at the address below.
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Every client has different motivations for selling and as such we don't offer pricing on the pieces clients sell
If you are looking for the value of your limited edition artwork -- we have a $50 charge for certificates of value if you provide the title, the number of your piece, and an image of your artwork. Original one-of-a-kind pieces require a formal appraisal. Please see our Appraisal Services page.
All information contained in these web pages is trademarked and copyrighted by Herndon Fine Art (c). All visual copyrights belong to the artists. All rights reserved. |
