This study of a black male model was one of my last pieces. I would date it from 1980 or 1981. 16" high. Fired clay, painted with a patina to resemble aged bronze.
In its current state, the figure looks like it was retrieved in an Italian archaeological dig in pieces and reassembled. Originally, it was over 20" high, with the arms stretched out and raised. The arms broke off, because they were too heavy for the base. One leg and foot also were broken.
The original figure was reworked to be twice as large as its first composition. I realized that I needed a much larger scale to express the dynamism of the pose and attitude. I added more clay for the upper torso. When the figure broke, it broke at the line where the clay was added.
I stored this figure and forgot about it. I thought I would retrieve it to show at least some artistic development in my brief sculpting study. I placed the piece in the outdoor light for a better photo; I did not intend it for permanent display outdoors. I have since return it to storage.
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