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"My hobby is sculpting in plaster. Its purpose is that of all proper hobbies--to let out urges that do not find expression in other channels" (M. Bartlett, Family Found, New York, 2002, p. 58).
Although Morton Bartlett attended college and worked as a freelance advertising photographer, his singular obsessions and working methods have caused him to be grouped with Self-Taught and Outsider art. His work, created solely for his enjoyment is one of the most intense and provocative of the genre. He created only 15 sculptures, a small number of masks and approximately 20 drawings. Each sculpture took well over a year to complete to the artist's satisfaction. Additionally, he designed and created all of the clothing and hairpieces for his creations. He would dress up his sculptures in various poses and photograph them, creating a body of 200 vintage photographs. Incredibly life-like and expressive, Bartlett's work is equally disturbing and poignant, sweet and intense.
PROPERTY FROM THE ROBERT M. GREENBERG COLLECTION
MORTON BARTLETT (1909-1992)
Untitled (Doll)
Details
MORTON BARTLETT (1909-1992)
Untitled (Doll)
painted plaster, fabric, synthethic hair
32½ x 9 x 5 in. (59.6 x 22.9 x 12.8)
Executed circa 1950
Untitled (Doll)
painted plaster, fabric, synthethic hair
32½ x 9 x 5 in. (59.6 x 22.9 x 12.8)
Executed circa 1950
Provenance
Marion Harris Antiques and Decorative Arts, Simsbury, Connecticut
Literature
M. Tatistcheff, 'The Sweethearts of Mr. Bartlett', Yankee Magazine, April 1962 (illustrated).