Ronald Lee Boise papers, 1964-1966

Collection Information

Size: 0.2 Linear feet (on partial microfilm reel)

Summary: Correspondence, including letters from author Ken Kesey, and other friends; photographs of Boise's work, of him and his friends; 3 ink drawings; exhibition announcements; a photocopy of a transcript of Alan Watt's statement concerning Boise's work; 2 Kama Sutra calendars, 1967, containing photographs of Boise's controversial sculptures, and material relating to the confiscation and trial over them; exhibition catalogs; business cards; clippings; a book, NOTES FROM THE UNDERGROUND; and programs from Boise's funeral service.

Biographical/Historical Note

Sculptor; California and New Mexico. Created his pieces from metal scraps found in junk yards. In 1961, his "Kama Sutra" series of sculpture depicting couples in various stages of coitus was confiscated from the Vorpal Gallery in San Francisco and it owners placed on trial for showing the works. In 1966, Boise died of heart failure.

Provenance

Lent and donated 1983-1984 by Lars Speyer, photographer and close friend of Boise.

Location of Originals

• Frames 245-481: Originals returned to lender, Lars Speyer, after microfilming.

Alternative Forms Available

35mm microfilm reel 3098 available at Archives of American Art offices and through interlibrary loan.

Restrictions on Access

Use of original papers requires an appointment and is limited to the Archives' Washington, D.C., Research Center. Microfilmed materials must be consulted on microfilm. Contact Reference Services for more information.

How to Cite This Collection

Ronald Lee Boise papers, 1964-1966. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.