Red Fern

Ron Fleming, Red Fern, 1995, box elder, 15 ⁷⁄₈ x 15 ⁵⁄₈ x 15 ¹⁄₂ in. diam. (40.3 x 39.6 x 39.4 cm) irregular, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995−−2003), 2003.60.15

Artwork Details

Title: Red Fern
Artist: Ron Fleming
Date: 1995
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: 15 ⁷⁄₈ x 15 ⁵⁄₈ x 15 ¹⁄₂ in. diam. (40.3 x 39.6 x 39.4 cm) irregular
Credit Line: Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995−−2003)
Mediums: box elder
Mediums Description: box elder
Classifications: Decorative Arts
Subjects: Object — foliage — fern
Object Number: 2003.60.15
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/2003.60.15

Artwork Description

Ron Fleming turns and hollows his shapes and then draws directly onto the wood, using the color and movement of the grain to guide his design. Balance is important, and Fleming walks around his sculptures several times, making small changes to ensure the composition works from every angle. His detailed pieces balance the fragility of petals and leaves with the strength and durability of wood.