Hand Painted Wooden Outsider/Folk Art Salvaged From Saint Elizabeths Asylum

  

This piece is a captivating example of outsider art. Outsider art is typically characterized by its raw, unpolished aesthetic, and an intuitive, often visionary approach to subject matter and materials. The artwork in question is a full-sized standing figure, about 6 feet in height, crafted with a simple, direct approach that belies a deeper emotional resonance.

Its creation from a patient at Saint Elizabeths Hospital, a historical institution that served as both sanctuary and asylum, adds layers of context and poignancy. The hospital itself, known for its long history of treating mental illness, has witnessed the lives and stories of countless individuals, often marked by periods of intense personal struggle. The figure's most striking feature is its face, painted with bold, unrefined strokes that convey a sense of immediacy and raw emotion. The eyes are rendered with a particular intensity, suggesting a window to the artist's soul, while the open mouth-cut out from the board-invites an interactive element, perhaps symbolizing the need for dialogue or the desire to be heard. The patina of the piece, with its weathered texture and the apparent age of the wood, speaks to the passage of time and the enduring nature of the human spirit.

The ability to fold the legs and lay the piece flat suggests a practical element to its design, enabling storage or transportation, hinting at an artwork that has had a life and function beyond its creation. Please review the photos for further detail.

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