Lonnie Holley

Holley, Lonnie B.

American, born 1950

Explore selected works

The sculpture consists of a collection of organic and man-made materials. It includes bones and rusty iron elements. The bones are a cream color, indicating age, while the iron components vary in color from reddish-brown to dark brown, showing corrosion. These materials are connected using thin, dark metal wires. The sculpture has a rough texture, with the bones and rusted metal creating intricate patterns. It is vertical and extends into the space around it.
Lonnie Holley, The Boneheaded Serpent at the Cross (It Wasn't Luck), 1996, found metal, bones, and dried flowers, Patrons' Permanent Fund and Gift of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, 2020.28.7

The Boneheaded Serpent at the Cross (It Wasn't Luck)

Lonnie Holley · 1996 · found metal, bones, and dried flowers ·  Accession ID  2020.28.7

The image shows intersecting wooden planks arranged in an abstract formation against a neutral background. The planks vary in texture and color, ranging from blackened to natural wood tones. They are tied together with strips of fabric in pink, red, teal, and purple, creating a complex web of lines and intersections. The composition evokes familiarity with objects such as a bundle of kindling or artistically arranged stack of firewood, focusing on contrasting colors and textures enhancing the abstract nature.
Lonnie Holley, Burnt Out, 1994, rags and burned wood, Patrons' Permanent Fund and Gift of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, 2020.28.36

Burnt Out

Lonnie Holley · 1994 · rags and burned wood ·  Accession ID  2020.28.36

The sculpture is an abstract form featuring geometric patterns and carved details. It blends elements of an ancient tablet with modern abstract art. It has multiple facial-like features, round eyes, and expressions, along with curved and linear indentations suggesting various shapes. The sculpture is primarily sandy beige and appears to be made from a material like stone or clay. The surface is rugged and rough, with shadows and highlights emphasizing its carvings and shapes. The design gives it an appearance of an ancient artifact with modern artistic influences. Positioned upright and slightly angled, it captures the viewer's attention with its complex and ambiguous forms.
Lonnie Holley, From the Beginning to the End to the Beginning, 1985, cast sand, Patrons' Permanent Fund and Gift of the Souls Grown Deep Foundation, 2020.28.6

From the Beginning to the End to the Beginning

Lonnie Holley · 1985 · cast sand ·  Accession ID  2020.28.6

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Bibliography

2000

  • Arnett, Paul, and William Arnett. Souls grown deep : African American vernacular art of the South. 2 vols. Atlanta, 2000-2001.