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Clyde Jones (American, b. 1938 or 39). "Porkypine" mixed media sculpture, ca. 2000. Signed in black marker on right buttocks. Perhaps the most unique zoomorphic sculpture we have ever featured, "Porkypine" is one of Clyde Jones' precious "critters". This captivating porcupine was lovingly carved, painted, and decorated by Jones who is an avid animal lover. Standing on all fours with a raised tail, Porkypine's body is painted a vibrant shade of blue-violet and covered with spring coils, found by the artist, to represent the critter's quills. Full-of-personality, its visage presents a proud snout, perky ears, and pink fabric flower eyes. According to Porkypine's owner, who acquired it directly from the artist at his home, when she expressed her initial enthusiasm for the piece, Jones replied, "That's a porkypine. That was in Paris, France." Clearly this critter was a world traveler! Size: 39" L x 14" W x 27.5" H (99.1 cm x 35.6 cm x 69.8 cm)
About the artist: "Clyde Jones is recognized for his wooden creations better known as 'critters.' His home in Bynum, NC, which is decorated with paintings of sea creatures and large penguins, bears a large yellow sign outside that reads, 'Critter Crossing.' Formerly a mill worker, Jones has been creating his critters since 1982 and uses a chainsaw to mold stumps and log remnants. His fondness for both animals and the environment are represented through his work.
In 1982, Jones began his association with the Haw River Assembly, an organization formed in order to restore and prevent further pollution of the Haw River, located near his home. As a result, Jones plays a large role in the annual Haw River Festival, which was created to educate both the public and schoolchildren of the escalating damage to the river and nearby watershed. He consistently donates his time and work for silent auctions or charities to aid the cause. Jones' work has been taken all over the world, including the Great Wall of China. He doesn't sell his work, and prefers to give it away. He frequently visits schools and has said, 'Parents need to leave kids be to make whatever they want to make, however they want to make it. They know what they're doing.'
Some years ago, Jones lost his longtime companion, his beloved dog Speck. He has laid Speck to rest in his yard, among all his other critters and continues to create more art pieces for the service and pleasure of others. Currently, the highway alongside the Haw River, leading from North Carolina's Research Triangle down past Bynum is being widened to accommodate Jones' creations, which are now commonly referred to as the 'Haw Creek Critters.'" (American Visionary Art Museum)
Please note, the consignor of this piece acquired it directly from the artist at this home in Bynum, North Carolina. The consignor has provided a written account that tells the story of their meeting and subsequent friendly exchanges which will accompany the piece.
Provenance: private New York City, New York, USA collection, purchased directly from the artist December 25, 2000
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#181426
Condition
Normal age wear. Signature in black marker on right buttocks has faded over time and is difficult to read. Limbs, tail, and ears were carved separately and joined to the body. End of the tail was skillfully reattached at one point. Some of the appendages are a tad loose, but all are joined to the body, and the figure still stands squarely. A very unusual piece in Jones' oeuvre; we have yet to find another with spring coils attached!