Fish with Penny Bubbles
Mixed media painting on stretched canvas • Stewart (signed 'Stewart 2018')
Style & Movement
Contemporary Folk Art / Outsider Art
Medium & Technique
Acrylic paint and metallic pigment on canvas with collaged currency (pennies and nickels/dimes); technique includes flat color blocking, heavy outlining, and coin adhesion.
Creation Period
2018 (as inscribed)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 20 inches; Landscape format
Subject Description
A stylized large yellow and white fish with a spiral eye swimming amidst vertical reed-like forms or trees. The artwork features real United States coins (pennies and silver-toned coins) arranged to represent air bubbles or rhythmic patterns in the background.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the canvas appears taut and colors remain vibrant.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $300
Auction Estimate
$50 - $150
Provenance History
Likely acquired directly from the artist or at a local art fair; private collection.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of regional 21st-century vernacular art, demonstrating the use of found objects (currency) to add texture and literal value to a whimsical decorative subject.
Notable Features
Incorporation of physical currency as bubbles; notable spiral 'hypnotic' eye motif; distinct black-line contouring on the fish and flora.
Condition Issues
Possible adhesive failure over time due to the weight of the coins; surface dust accumulation.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure adhesive stability for the coins; display in a climate-controlled environment away from direct UV light to prevent acrylic fading.