James Spencer Russell Signed “Variations on a Square XVII” Found Object Assemblage

A mid-20th century assemblage by the American artist James Spencer Russell (1915-2000). Titled Variations on a Square XVII, this assemblage is composed of found objects and exhibits two connected compositions. One composition is colored paper intentionally ripped and torn exposing different colored paper beneath. The other composition consists of a wood scrap with what looks to be a metal screen torn in different ways to reveal a ring hanging from the center of the piece by a dark piece of thread. The piece is signed at the bottom right and titled verso.

Born in Monticello, Indiana, Russell was interested in art from a young age but was directed into pursuing a military career by his family. As a young person, he attended a military academy, became a celebrated codebreaker during WWII, and even received a scholarship to attend WestPoint. However, Russell's interest in art eventually led him to abandon his military pursuits and try to make it in the art world instead. After working as an NBC set designer after WWII, he turned his attention to becoming a full-time artist. During the 1960s, he started exhibiting his works alongside artists who would later come to characterize the art scene at the time, including Robert Rauschenberg and Roy Lichtenstein. He later moved back to Indiana where he continued to create art until his death in 2000. 

Measurements:

25.25” W x 18.25” H x 4” D.

Condition notes:

Gapping to bottom left corner of frame. Intentional signs of wear and distressing due to the materials used. Discoloration to verso.