This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/28/2023
WIRSUM, Karl (American, 1939-2021) Chili Heels. 1981. 29 ½ x 22 ½”. Frame: 37 ½ x 30”. Colored pencil and ink on paper. The drawing on view is a classic example of a Wirsum-esque figure with androgynous body features clothed in form fitting pants and an asymmetrical bra. The figure has identical arms, seemingly with teeth, and the feet sport ice cream cone stiletto heels. Perhaps the title reference is temperature literal. Chili Heels. A double meaning in the title could also be alluding to the hot and cold visual of the figure which is clad in a graduated red blend, with the body and adornments in a cool accented blue. Karl Wirsum was a member of the Chicago artistic group The Hairy Who and also is associated with the Imagists. They helped set the foundation for Chicago's art scene in the 1970s. Free sheet adhered to board. Five areas (1 ¾ x ½” each) lightly visible at upper (2) and lower (3) edges where double-sided tape secures the paper to backing board. Foxing marks and stains in each quadrant closer to edges than image. Good condition. Provenance: Dart Gallery, Chicago, Illinois (label verso).