Handmade Book of Signed Mixed Media Original Drawings with Foundation COA, 1984

Purvis Young  

Artist: Purvis Young
Title: Untitled
Medium: Book of original drawings
Size: 11" x 9" x 3"
Edition: Original
Year: Circa 1982
Condition: In the style of found art with an intentionally weathered appearance. Expected imperfections include heavy creasing, unfinished edges, and marks and staining on the back.
Documentation: Includes a Certificate of Authenticity from the Purvis Young Foundation

This rare collection of original Purvis Young drawings has been hand-assembled into a book by the artist, transforming the individual works of art into an immersive artistic experience. Handling the book and turning the pages is an intimate, interactive experience with the art. The book contains 155 original Purvis Young drawings of various mediums including crayon, ink, and marker. In several places, Young includes the original pages that he sometimes embellishes with his own details. The individual compositions feature many of Purvis Young's most iconic symbols including trucks, trains, boats, and his unique figurative elements. The book also features annotations written by Young that provide some insight into the meaning of his works, including "Some people have a job" and "The fire is out." Many of the pages are individually signed and dated.

Purvis Young is well known for his use of unconventional materials and found objects including handmade frames and plywood canvases. The unique conceptualization of a handmade book fits perfectly into his creative process. The idea of found and handmade items serves as a tangible tie between Young and his community. The use of found and handmade items in Young's art has become a significant part of his signature style and a symbolic element of his background as a street artist.

This untitled book of original Purvis Young drawings includes a certificate of authenticity from the Purvis Young Foundation. As to be expected with street art, this piece is intentionally weathered and includes unfished edges, creasing, and irregular page sizes.