Is Central Black under copyright?

Yes, this artwork is still under copyright.

Catalogue entry

William Ronald Smith

Central Black

1956. , 214.0 x 165.0 cm. The Robert McLaughlin Gallery.

**Fig. 1.** William Ronald Smith, *Central Black*, 1956. Shown as the reproduction you are specifying: , .

§ 1Catalogue data

This Artwork Is Under Copyright Protection

The artwork displayed on this page is protected by copyright law, which means we cannot legally create or sell an identical reproduction. This protection is enforced under international agreements such as the Berne Convention and by national laws, including those outlined by the U.S. Copyright Law - Title 17.

As a respectful and legal alternative, we offer custom, hand-painted artworks inspired by the original. Our skilled and professional artists carefully study the original's style, mood, and artistic essence to create a new, unique piece that evokes the same feeling - while remaining an original creation in its own right.

This method fully complies with copyright regulations because it does not involve copying or duplicating the protected artwork. Instead, it is a creative reinterpretation - a new painting that is influenced by the original but not identical to it.

Artist Biography

William Ronald (1926-1998) was a leading Canadian abstract expressionist & founder of Painters Eleven. Explore his dynamic 'central image' paintings, lyrical abstraction, and influential role in shaping modern Canadian art. #abstractart #canadianart

§ 3Commentary

Reproduction order sheet

Hand Made Oil Reproduction

Dimensions (h × w) Standard custom Standard custom CM INCH CM INCH Pick from our preset sizes that match the artwork's original proportions. choose size Loading sizes... width height Type the width and the height you need, to fit your frame or your wall. This is hand-painted, so for a size with a different shape the artist can paint a bit more around the picture, or cut a bit — you choose. We send you a digital mockup to approve before the painting starts. The picture shown on this page does not show the real result — only the mockup does. Read more
Mounting Moulding ; overall . Above 105 cm the frame is shipped as a kit for a professional framer — read the details.
Alteration of the image	$50—
Executed by	$100—
Nameplate	—
Protective Varnish	$15—
Production and delivery	$30incl.

Customize: replace a face with a photo, add a pet, include a hidden message in the background, change the background. Our team emails you for instructions and provides a mockup preview.
Elite Senior Artist: more detail, finesse, and extra production time.
Glossy varnish: enhances colors, protects against light and moisture.
Nameplates: bronze, 9x2 cm, artist name and title; acrylic, 10x15 cm, artwork informations and QR code.

§ 4The artist

William Ronald Smith

1926 - 1998, Canada

Quick facts about William Ronald Smith

Full Name: William Ronald Smith
Nationality: Canadian
Date Of Birth: 1926
Date Of Death: 1998
Place Of Birth: Stratford, Canada
Notable Artworks:
- Central Image Paintings
- The Lyrical Abstraction Art Movement
Artistic Movement Or Style: Abstract Expressionism
Artists Who Influenced This Artist: ['Hans Hofmann']
Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Painters Eleven']

Artist Biography

early life and career

william ronald smith, known professionally as william ronald, was a pivotal figure in the development of canadian abstract art. born on august 13, 1926, in canada, smith's artistic journey was marked by innovation and a deep passion for the abstract expressionist movement.

the founding of painters eleven

in 1953, smith co-founded painters eleven, a group that would significantly influence the canadian art scene. this collective's emphasis on abstract art not only reflected the post-war avant-garde spirit but also positioned smith as a leading figure in this movement.

artistic style and contributions

smith's work is characterized by his "central image" paintings, which embody the essence of abstract expressionism. his style, though varied, consistently explores the depths of human emotion through bold, vibrant colors and dynamic compositions. this approach has been influential in shaping the broader understanding of canadian art.

key works: the lyrical abstraction art movement, a series that delves into the emotional aspects of abstract art. central image paintings, a collection showcasing smith's unique approach to abstract expressionism.
influences: the lyrical abstraction art movement on AllPaintingsStore, offering insights into the post-war art scene. abstract expressionism on wikipedia, detailing the global influence of this art movement.
museums and collections: the robert mclaughlin gallery, featuring smith's works alongside other notable canadian artists. the robert mclaughlin gallery on AllPaintingsStore, highlighting the gallery's collection of contemporary art.

legacy and impact

william ronald smith passed away on february 9, 1998, but his legacy endures. his contributions to canadian abstract art have been profound, influencing generations of artists and cementing his place in the annals of art history.

notable mentions: walter hawley yarwood, a fellow artist whose work sky fire is featured on AllPaintingsStore, showcasing the diversity of canadian abstract art. william ronald smith's profile on AllPaintingsStore, offering an in-depth look at his life and work.

conclusion

william ronald smith's impact on canadian art is undeniable. through his pioneering spirit and innovative approach to abstract expressionism, he has left an indelible mark on the world of art. his legacy continues to inspire, a testament to the enduring power of his vision.

§ 5Comparanda

Related Artworks

§ 6Questions

§ 7Cite this entry

AllPaintingsStore.com, “William Ronald Smith, Central Black (1956)”, https://allpaintingsstore.com/en/art/william-ronald-smith-central-black-D7H22F-en/ArtistReproduction/ (accessed 2 October 2026).

§ 8The reproduction

Hand Made Oil Reproduction

Hand-painted oil on canvas in your size and frame, made to order by our artists. ( Switch to Print Switch to Digital Image)

It is specified on the order sheet in the margin; the present state of that sheet reads as follows.

Central Black

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Size

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Elite Senior Artist

More detail, finesse, and extra production time

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Reproduction Frame

-

For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a kit, disassembled. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.

Professional assembly required - this is not a DIY product.
The kit must be assembled and the canvas stretched by an experienced professional framer, using wood glue (not supplied), a canvas stretching plier and clamps to hold the bars square while the glue dries. Incorrect assembly or uneven canvas tension can permanently damage the artwork and is not covered by our warranty.

All solid wood bars are included, precisely cut to size.
Assembled with the screws provided, plus wood glue for the corner joints, which is not supplied and must be sourced by your framer.
Professional tools are required and not included: a canvas stretching plier (tensioner) and clamps to hold the bars square while the glue dries.

Important:
The corner joints require wood glue, the bars must be held with clamps until the glue is fully dry, and tightening the canvas on the assembled frame requires a canvas stretching plier. None of these are included in the kit. Please arrange an experienced professional framer before ordering this size.

Assembly guide is provided here

Nameplate

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Protective Varnish

Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture)

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Customize My Artwork

Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.