Edward Kineholz was an American pioneering installations artist and assemblage sculptor. Born in 1927 in Fairfield, Washington State, he grew up on a farm learning carpentry, drafting and mechanical skills. Though he received some formal education at both Eastern WA College of Education and Whitmore College (WA), he did not achieve a college degree nor […]
Kienholz’ art could arguably be considered both unique and “of his time” due to the types of art he created and the themes his used. He was a pioneering creator of “assemblage sculptures” as well as a pioneering member of the “Funk Art Movement” and was considered a member of the “Beat Generation”. His […]
Ed Kienholz’ life was as much a part of his work as the work itself. Much has been made of how his life on a Washington farm and the skills learned there, shaped his mode of expression as well as his subject matter. His most provocative piece, “Back Seat Dodge ‘38”, was said by the […]
Can an entire life boil down to those actions and things that fit into a small, dingy room? The Kienholz assemblage, “Sollie 17” (1979-80), suggests that this could be the outcome of a man’s life. In a re-creation of an SRO hotel room, Kienholz has depicted the totality of the end stage of one man’s […]
This playlist is a combination of first hand footage of some of Kienholz’ works as well as informative videos of specific works. These videos offer a far better understanding of the artist’s work than a static image can.
Paint and resin on mannequin parts set on metal perambulator with wood, metal, rubber, and plastic toy 39 1/2 x 19 x 31 1/4 in. This piece is one of Kienholz’ earliest works. It shows his interest in the use of everyday objects as material and morbidity in theme.
History as a Planter 1961 Paint and resin on metal oven and mannequin parts with metal Jew’s Harp, newspaper, wood, plexiglass, tin, Wandering Jew plant, and electrical cord 33 1/4 x 20 1/2 x 14 1/4 in. This piece is another example of his assemblage work before his shift to “tableaux” style.
Polyester resin, paint, shopping cart, furniture, concrete, lamp, cloth, bedpan, and medical implements 59 x 48 x 54 in. The Illegal Operation, 1962, deals with high tension social issue of abortion over a decade be before it was legalized. This piece shows Kienholz’ interest in social and political subjects and creating work that evokes […]
Roxy’s, 1960-61 Full Scale assemblage (room-sized installation) with 8 figures, each with a specific name Roxy’s is Kienholz’ first completely subversive installation, making it a pivotal art piece. He created an environment of a shared experience that the viewer would walk into. This brothel scene was inspired by a childhood experience. Five Dollar Billy Engraved […]
The Birthday 1964 Mannequin with electrically lighted Lucite, gynecologist’s examination table, suitcase, clothing, paper, flock, fiberglass, paint, and polyester resin. 84 x 120 x 60 in.