James Harold Jennings (NC, 1931-1999), Figural Whirligig

Assemblage of polychrome painted carved wood and vinyl siding, depicting a woman operating the blade, signed to the underside.

13 1/4 x 13 1/4 x 30 in.

From the Collection of Carolyn Ikenberry, Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Jennings's work is noticeable for its colorful and sometimes complex, painted dots as well as astral forms. When inspiration failed, Jennings resorted to a favorite trick of pressing fingertips against closed eyelids. Calling himself the “sun, moon and star artist,” he frequently incorporated these symbols within his work as well as including them with his signature.

Some surface wear, grime, and natural aging.