Graham Davidson 2003 3D Paper Collage "Beautiful Garden" Folk Art Shadowbox

An extraordinary work by outsider artist Laura "Graham" Davidson (American, 1967-2003), a self-taught Vermont artist known for her intricate hand-built "paper worlds," three-dimensional paper collages constructed in wooden shadowboxes. This piece is signed and dated 2003, the year of the artist's death, making it one of her final documented works.

The scene: A fanciful, satirical suburban tableau showing a Victorian house and its front garden. A nude man mows the lawn while a nude woman, a single flower held modestly at her waist, holds up a rake nearby. Rendered in bold, saturated color. The border surrounding the central scene is a dense exuberant color collage of mixed patterns and motifs. Some elements of the collage are build up as many as five layers deep, showing the remarkable hand-built dimensionality Davidson's work is known for.

Handwritten text reads: "What a Beautiful Garden!" across the top, and along the bottom: "They were full of pride and delight as the cars slowed down to take a closer look."

The shadowbox frame is painted a bright royal blue and the artwork sits under glass. Signed "Graham '03" on front lower right. Signed "Graham Davidson '2003 www.grahamster.com (802)442-4300" on back.

Davidson's work is scarce on the market. Very few pieces come up for sale, and auction records show real variance depending on venue and buyer recognition, with some pieces realizing well into four figures. 

Please note: This piece contains stylized nude figures. Please review photos carefully before purchasing.

SIZE  12" W x 15" H x 3" D

CONDITION Glass and artwork are in excellent condition. A few minor marks to the frame; no losses or damage to the paper collage itself.

This is a vintage item. It has a history. Every attempt is made to describe it accurately, please examine photos carefully. We want you to love your artwork.