In the mid-1980s, Charles LeDray worked as a guard at the Seattle Art Museum, where he spent time with works of art from all over the world, such as African masks, Southeast Asian jewelry and textiles, and cups made of rhinoceros horn. After work, he would leave the museum excited to make something of his own. LeDray’s work is also inspired by objects with a history. The objects might be precious, like those in a museum, or ordinary, like those you might find in a thrift store or on the street.
All of the objects in Charles LeDray’s work are handmade by the artist. He creates miniature pots on a pottery wheel and stitches together tiny suits, shirts, underwear, hats, coats, and other clothing. He even makes the buttons, cuffs, and collars. Each object requires expert craftsmanship as well as careful attention to detail.
