Anchors Aweigh

Helen Livingston Broome (American, 1926‑2022), 1992

A unique mixed-media assemblage sculpture conceived by Helen Livingston Broome as a transgender sailor figure. Combining naval imagery with a stylised mannequin, make-up, jewellery, pearls, textiles, rope, metal ornaments and found objects, the work playfully disrupts conventional ideas of gender and presentation. Created in 1992, its exploration of gender identity gives the work a particularly striking context within Broome's highly individual practice. Both sculptural and theatrical, Anchors Aweigh exemplifies the artist's transformation of collected and everyday materials into richly layered figurative constructions.

The artist's collection and studio/gallery, United Nations Plaza, New York, where the work occupied a prominent position; by bequest to the present owner.

Lady Livingston, dir. Cassandre Hornez, France, 2014, 52 min. Documentary portrait of the Artist and her artistic practice; Anchors Aweigh appears in the film. The documentary was presented at a launch screening in Paris in 2014.

Hand-signed by the artist. Accompanied by a letter of authentication from the Estate of Helen Livingston Broome.