Maverick Mist

Jesse Howard
Paint on enamel and metal

JULY.4.1969. HI NABOR’! IF THAT = OLD GEE – ZER’S IN HEAVEN, LIKE HIS TOMBSTONE SAYS, IT’S PROBABLY BECAUSE THE DEVIL WOULDN’T HAVE HIM. QUOTE. FIRE AND HAIL. SNOW AND VAPOUR. STORMY WIND FUL-LFILLING HIS WORD: PSALMS=148=8.

The self-taught artist and social activist Jesse Clyde Howard was an adamant defender of First Amendment rights.  Hundreds of sign sculptures like this one once filled his property in Fulton, Missouri.  Ranging from confessions to angry accusations, these signs demonstrate Howard’s belief in free thought and free speech. His “text messages” may be appreciated for their aesthetic qualities as well.  The bold, black lettering and stark white background create an arresting abstract visual arrangement.

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