Lot 144: Henry Ray Clark Drawing, Tiger Woods, King of Golf

Henry Ray Clark (American/Texas, 1936-2006), “Tiger Woods – The King of Golf,” mixed media on found paper hand-drawn tribute to professional golfer Tiger Woods, shown in a central star and surrounded by images of tigers, golf clubs and intricate geometric designs. The overall image appears to have a plastic or laminate covering, suggesting it may have been painted on a menu. Framed under glass with a white mat in a plain black frame. Inscribed across top and signed upper right. Sight: 19 1/2 in W x 13 in H. Frame: 25 in W x 18 1/2 in H. Circa 2000. Biography: Henry Ray Clark began his art career while taking part in a prison arts program at Huntsville State Prison, where he was serving a 25 year sentence on charges related to drug dealing, assault and other crimes. His unique drawing style, characterized by detailed patterning and line work, caught the attention of Houston artist William Steen. With Steen’s help, Clark’s work was eventually featured in outsider art exhibits including “Living Folk” at Hirschl & Adler Folk Gallery in New York in 1990 and “Passionate Visions of the American South,” at the New Orleans Museum of Art in 1993. Clark was released from prison but was shot and killed during a home invasion robbery in 2006. 

PROVENANCE: The collection of Ronnie Steine, Nashville, TN. 

CONDITION: Image is drawn on as found paper which appears to have some creases and possible lamination. No damage noted aside from condition issues inherent in the material. Not examined out of frame.