Richard Jolley is an internationally acclaimed glass sculptor renowned for his innovative and expressive works that delve into the complexities of the human experience. Born in 1952 in Wichita, Kansas, Jolley relocated to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, during his youth, a move that would profoundly influence his artistic journey. In 1970, he commenced his formal art education at Tusculum College in Greenville, Tennessee, under the mentorship of esteemed glass artist Michael Taylor. Jolley later completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts at George Peabody College, now integrated into Vanderbilt University.
In 1975, Richard Jolley established his glass studio in Knoxville, Tennessee, making the unconventional decision to base his practice in East Tennessee, away from traditional art hubs. This choice underscores his commitment to fostering a unique artistic voice rooted in his regional identity.
Richard Jolley’s oeuvre is characterized by a profound exploration of the human form, employing organic shapes to navigate themes encompassing the body, nature, and science. His creations range from delicate glass “line drawings” to vibrant, large-scale sculptures and totems. This versatility reflects his fascination with the “pure abstraction” inherent in both art and science, allowing viewers to engage with the enigmatic qualities of his work without the constraints of explicit explanations.
A pinnacle of Jolley’s career is the monumental installation “Cycle of Life: Within the Power of Dreams and the Wonder of Infinity,” unveiled in 2014 at the Knoxville Museum of Art. This masterpiece, composed of thousands of glass and steel elements, symbolically portrays six phases of life: Primordial, Emergence, Desire, Tree of Life, Contemplation, and Sky. Spanning a remarkable length, it stands as one of the largest figural glass assemblages globally, embodying Jolley’s ambition to encapsulate the essence of human existence.
Throughout his prolific career, Richard Jolley has participated in over 64 solo exhibitions and his works are held in numerous prestigious public collections, including the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Corning Museum of Glass, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C.
Are You Looking to Sell Art by Richard Jolley?
Collectors seeking to sell Richard Jolley art from their collections have a unique opportunity to capitalize on the artist’s esteemed reputation and the increasing demand for his work. The market for Richard Jolley art has demonstrated robust activity, with his sculptures and glass pieces achieving notable results at auctions.
For instance, Jolley’s “Avian Dream Totem” sold for $11,000, and his “Innocence” fetched between $2,000 and $3,000 at auction. These figures exemplify the strong market interest and the potential value inherent in Richard Jolley art.
Given the significant value and collector interest in Richard Jolley art, it is imperative to have these pieces professionally appraised to accurately assess their worth. Engaging with a reputable auction house like Lion & Unicorn ensures that collectors receive expert evaluations and access to a broad network of potential buyers. Lion & Unicorn, with over 30 years of experience in the art, antiques, and collectibles market, offers comprehensive services including certified appraisals, estate sales, and nationwide pickup and transport. Their main gallery and production studio, located in Hollywood, Florida, serve a nationwide audience, providing a trusted platform for selling Richard Jolley art.
Selling Richard Jolley art at auction through Lion & Unicorn not only maximizes the potential return on investment but also places the artwork in the spotlight it deserves, reaching collectors who deeply appreciate the significance of Jolley’s contributions to contemporary glass sculpture. The auction process, characterized by competitive bidding, often leads to favorable outcomes for sellers, reflecting the true market value of the pieces.
If you are considering selling Richard Jolley art from your collection, partnering with Lion & Unicorn provides a strategic advantage. Their expertise, extensive reach, and commitment to excellence ensure that your Richard Jolley art receives the attention and valuation it merits, ultimately connecting you with discerning collectors who recognize and value the profound artistry of Richard Jolley.