Outdoor Sculpture Appraisal

Grasses

This item is an original artwork by Max Sickel, titled 'Grasses', measuring 28x24 inches. It appears to be a mixed-media piece, framed in a distinctive teal-to-green gradient frame that catches the eye and complements the artwork's aesthetic. The central composition features two slender, organically shaped trees with sparse, dark foliage, suggesting a more natural, perhaps rustic or urban nature scene. The background depicts a subtle, overcast sky, rendered with soft, muted grays and whites, adding depth and a somewhat melancholic atmosphere to the piece. Below the trees, there is a prominent gray wall, heavily adorned with graffiti that includes a heart motif, the letters '420', and fragmented other text, rendered in shades of gray, white, and red. This graffiti introduces a stark contrast between nature and urban decay, suggesting underlying social commentary. The foreground is dominated by meticulously detailed grass, featuring various shades of green and brown, with small, possibly sculpted or painted floral accents in yellow and blue. Amidst the grass, an orange, somewhat cone-shaped object is visible, adding an intriguing, perhaps narrative, element. The overall craftsmanship suggests a high degree of skill, particularly in the textural rendering of the grass and foliage, and the precise execution of the graffiti elements. The artist’s use of mixed media and the juxtaposition of natural and man-made elements create a compelling visual narrative. The piece is in excellent condition, with no visible damage or wear, and the framing appears intact and well-maintained. The estimated age corresponds to the contemporary art period given the artist and stylistic approach.