Untitled (abstract assemblage)

Verla Blue Aiken

This work was found in central California and is signed "Verla Aiken, Modesto." According to U.S. Census data, Verla Aiken, born Verla Mae Blue in 1915, was a home maker living in Modesto, California, from the 1920s until her death in 1995. Little is found on her life, however a son, Michael, went on to become a successful dance choreographer on Broadway, suggesting that the Aiken home was a creative one.

This assemblage is made up of wooden household objects such as carpentry trim and assorted turnings, Tinkertoys, golf tees, and an antique fan mount, among other items. These were carefully assembled and glued to a beveled, square wooden base, and finally spray-painted matte black. The effect is a towering, architectural structure whose four sides each exhibit a unique silhouette. No date was given and as such we have listed a generous estimation.