British Columbia. C. 1980. Wood. A finely made red and orange "stick figure" ballerina stands on one toe with arms outstretched. The eyes and mouth are tiny. The figure stands on a simple black base. Though unsigned, the piece is attributed to Outsider artist Phillip Melvin (1938 - 2010). 30" x 17" x 7.75". From the late Jim Fleming Collection. Folk artist Philip Melvin (1938-2010) was born in La Manche, Newfoundland, and later settled in Toronto. The self-proclaimed 'Man from La Manche' was known for his wood carvings and paintings, as well as poetry. He worked primarily with 'as found' materials such as wood panels from construction sites for his low relief carvings and paintings. His art often reflected people in society, religion and politics, with a theme of human foolishness at the forefront. Melvin is listed in Kobayashi and Bird’s important reference book “A Compendium of Canadian Folk Artists.” His work is pictured in the book “From the Heart - Folk Art in Canada” and his work is also on display in the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Ottawa.

Good condition.