Tony Dotson Monumental Assemblage of King Kong on Empire State Building

Item Details

Tony Dotson (Cincinnati, born 1971)
Untitled (king kong on empire state building), 21st century
Acrylic paint, carved wood and toy woodblock sculpture
Signed with blocks to the bottom

Tony Dotson began creating art in 2002 after being inspired by the celebrated folk artist Mose Tolliver, whose work he collected. Before exploring his own artistic talent Dotson spent fifteen years working in the music industry, managing popular Cincinnati venues such as Bogart’s, Taft Theatre, Riverbend, and Jammin On Main. Over time Dotson began working full-time as a self-taught artist and has become one of the most highly sought-after living artists in Cincinnati, often selling his work directly via social media. Following some of Mose Tolliver’s techniques, Dotson typically works with house paint on wood, but also creates mixed media compositions and assemblages with reused materials such as vintage toys, stuffed animals, and prints, due to his interest in sustainability. He enjoys creating art with his kids and children in orphanages and even describes himself as a giant kid. Some recurring themes in his work include Batman, Bigfoot, and King Kong among other iconic characters. In addition to Mose Tolliver, Keith Haring is among Dotson’s artistic influences, visible in his use of dark black outlines and his Batman themes, which was a particular motif Dotson viewed in one of Haring’s works. Other influences include R.A. Miller, Gus Fink, and Edward Goss, whose work he also collects.

Throughout his artistic career, Dotson has exhibited his work in over 100 shows in several states including New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Nevada. His work can be found in private collections throughout the world. In a significant moment and exciting artistic opportunity, Dotson was able to collaborate on a piece with Mose Tolliver and his sister Annie Tolliver within the last days of Mose Tolliver’s life. Dotson is currently working on a children’s book and continues to work with the non-profit gallery and studio Visionaries + Voices, where he has collaborated since the organization first opened.

Condition

- dust accretions throughout; minor loss of paint to woodblock; minor handling stains to wooden bases of each composite block; minor abrasion and staining to king kong.

Dimensions

• Please note, this is an item that may be especially difficult to move and/or transport. The winner is responsible for bringing appropriate assistance, vehicle, proper materials, and any necessary tools to pickup. International shipping may be restricted.

• Please note, this item is highly fragile and/or requires custom packing. Additional handling time should be expected. If pickup is selected please bring appropriate packing materials.

Item #

ITMG893842