Sold for $22,680

Sold prices are inclusive of Buyer’s Premium

Lot Description

Karl Wirsum

(American, 1939-2021)

Plug Bug, 1991

colored pencil on paper

signed Karl Wirsum (lower left); titled and dated (lower right)

27 1/2 x 24 inches.

Provenance:
Donald Petkus, Park Ridge, Illinois
Sold: Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, September 14, 2015, Lot 159
Aquired from the above sale by the present owner

Lot Note:
This bright, boldly geometric Plug Bug acted as the final drawing for Wirsum’s mural of the same title. The two-dimensionality perfectly translates to its final mural format, with Wirsum’s use of whimsical segments of pure color—teals, acidic greens, and pastel violets popping from a scarlet background—to define the patterned forms. This electric use of color was appropriate for a modern logo or emblem of a lightning bug—perfect to decorate the ComEd substation building on Block 37. The mural, an attention-grabbing State Street landmark from 1992 to 2007, has since been entombed by the development of a skyscraper; however, rather than being disappointed by this obscuring of his work, Wirsum was delighted. He appreciated the idea of Plug Bug being unearthed by future generations, like archaeologists discovering a scarab-laden temple wall and wondering what they meant. This lot, the only remaining evidence of Plug Bug, for now, echoes the ruin-like symbols of a modern age that its mural will one day represent, a fitting legacy for a work by an artist whose influences included commercial sign painting and uncovered Mesoamerican artifacts.

Condition Report

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Hindman staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Hindman website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Hindman.

Please email fineart@hindmanauctions.com for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.