Lot 721: Verina Baxter TN Modernist Abstract Sculpture

Verina Baxter (Tennessee, 1950-2015) white marble or alabaster and stainless steel modernist sculpture. A organic marble or alabaster form rests atop a hard-edged steel base with vertical slits along lower edge. With “Verina Baxter” label affixed to interior underside. 9 1/2 in. H x 20 in. W x 11 in. D. Biographical Note: “[Chattanooga] sculptor and arts advocate Verina Baxter changed careers in the early 1990s from banking to art after taking a class in stone carving at Arrowmont School in Gatlinburg. First working with different types of stone such as alabaster and marble, and then with various metals including bronze and stainless steel, Baxter dedicated herself to sculpting full time in her 40s. Born and raised in East Ridge, Verina Baxter’s works were inspired by her many interests. She was a voracious reader, and loved to travel internationally. The natural forms that are apparent in her pieces correspond with her avid gardening. Initially only using metal as support or embellishment for her stone pieces, Baxter became more and more intrigued by the process of turning metal. The attention to detail, to achieving a particular machined finish is especially obvious in the precision of her Industrial series.” (Source: Hunter Museum of American Art)

CONDITION: With a few oxidation spots to one side of steel form and 1 1/2 inch x 1 1/2 inch “V”-shaped scratch, along with several other abrasions, to top of stone. Additional scratches or abrasion to base of stone, not visible when placed on base. Otherwise overall very good condition.