JUKE BOX

Juke Box holds a powerful and enthralling presence. William Hawkins used a variety of literary, popular and visual sources as inspiration for his works. Here, he combines found objects with vibrant colors to depict a jukebox bursting with life. Affixed with a Miller Brewing Company logo at the top of the machine, this masterpiece exemplifies the originality of his work. Hawkins cleverly references the beer’s popularity since its founding in 1855 with the text TOP OF THE CHARTS SINCE 1855 curving around the jukebox. Centering the jukebox is a foaming beer glass, built out from the masonite, that boasts similarities to the large glasses Miller used in advertisements. Streams of yellow and grey showers out from all sides, as if one can see the music emitting from the machine. This work falls within a later phase in his work characterized by boarders of repeating patterns and his inscription WiLLiAM.L.HAWKiNS.BORN.KY.JULY.27 1895 along the bottom.

When Hawkins moved to Columbus, he held several different jobs, including working as a truck driver, a plumber, and running a brothel. He also hauled salvaged materials and other construction supplies which gave him access and understanding of the mediums he used in his artworks. In 1982, he submitted one of his paintings to the Ohio State Fair and won first prize, leading to further recognition of his work.