Description:

**Originally Listed At $300**

Mama Johnson (American, 1918-2011). Bird Family. Mixed media (watercolor and marker) on paper, n.d. Signed "Mama J." at lower left. A delightful drawing by the celebrated folk artist Mama Johnson offering a whimsical glimpse into her unique vision, featuring stylized birds rendered with charming naiveté and expressive lines in mixed media. The central bird, presumably the mother, protectively shelters her chicks, while their sleek black outlines adding contrast. Mama Johnson (1910-2009), a self-taught artist who began creating in her seventies, transformed her observations of rural Alabama life into vibrant art using found materials. Her work, often featuring animals, is celebrated for its honesty and reflection of the African American experience. Owning this piece is acquiring a tangible part of American folk art history, imbued with warmth and the power of creativity, making it a cherished and increasingly sought-after addition to any collection. Size of drawing: 17.75" W x 12" H (45.1 cm x 30.5 cm); of frame: 23" W x 17" H (58.4 cm x 43.2 cm)

Provenance: private Rochester, Minnesota, USA collection, acquired from 1990 -1998

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#191947

  • Condition: Signed "Mama J." at lower left. Mounted behind glass in custom matte and frame with suspension wire on verso for display. Some scuffs to frame that do not affect drawing. Has not been examined outside of frame, but appears to be in excellent overall condition.

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February 8, 2026 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000