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Michigan Worker

George Vargas

Artwork Details

Michigan Worker
1985
George Vargas
welding goggles, metal, hanging bells, rusty bottle cap, pulleys, chains, and padlock mounted on plywood
20 7/8 in x 10 3/8 in x 2 9/16 in (53.02 cm x 26.35 cm x 6.51 cm);20 7/8 in x 10 3/8 in x 2 9/16 in (53.02 cm x 26.35 cm x 6.51 cm)
Gift of the artist
2004/1.153

Description

Subject Matter:

Created when Vargas was a student at the University of Michigan, “Michigan Worker” draws on the tradition of the found object and junk art, as well as a figurative tradition, which he evokes by using industrial materials representing the working class Michigan automotive worker.

Physical Description:

A mixed media assemblage consisting of welding goggles, rusted metal, a padlock, and two rusted bells hanging from a chain mounted on a wooden board with screws. The position of the objects, with goggles at the top, makes the assemblage look vaguely face-like.

Usage Rights:

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