Description: FOR SALE: "Brave Front", a one-of-a-kind bronze sculpture by famous Bahamian sculpture artist, Randolph Johnston (1904-1992). This unique piece was created in 1971 in his island studio at Little Harbor, Abaco, Bahamas. It is the only movable sculpture Johnston ever made. It is signed and countersigned by Randolph Johnston and includes a certificate of authenticity in the handwriting of the artist himself. "Brave Front" consists of two pieces, a skeletonized head of a man and a mask which pivots in front of the face. The face of the man is twisted in apparent fear and darkened to portray his sense of anguish. The mask, in contrast, is bright conveying a look of confidence and boldness. In this piece, Johnston wanted to show that we all have two sides, the outer face which the world sees and the inner which hides our fears and inadequacies. The sculpture is mounted on a gnarly Bahamian Buttonwood stump. It stands about 12 inches high. Background:Randolph Johnston, artist and teacher was originally from Canada, moved to Little Harbor, Bahamas with his wife Margot and three young sons in 1952. There he eventually established a home and studio where he created Lost Wax bronze sculptures until his death in 1992. His sculpture pieces are powerful and center around mankind's darker side. His message is a complex combination of joy, dread, life, death, fear, and hope. To the observer, they are aesthetically delightful, emotionally shattering, irresistibly fascinating, yet mysteriously provocative. In 1971, I met Randolph when I sailed into Little Harbor. In those early days, few came to this remote location. I was fortunate enough to become both a friend and an assistant to him during my stay. Near my time to leave, I asked Ran if he would create a special work for me. I wanted something that was totally unique and representative of his style. After some days, Ran revealed a wax model of what became "Brave Front". I remember how taken I was upon hearing him describe what he wanted the sculpture to say. To me, it was perfect. I was privileged to work with him throughout the casting process from helping to create the mold to pouring the molten bronze into it. "Brave Front" has followed me along my life's journey always reminding how we all can relate to its message. Now, at my age of 77, it is time to find it a new home. If you wish further information or photos, please feel free to contact me. Additionally: I have actual photos taken during the creation of "Brave Front" showing Mr. Johnston, his studio, and the casting.
Price: 25000 USD
Location: Goose Creek, South Carolina
End Time: 2024-02-24T03:00:25.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
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Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Artist: Randolph Johnston
Type: Sculpture
Format: Bust
Material: Bronze
Subject: Human