Dave McGary (American, 1958-2013). Bear's Nest, 1994. Bronze with polychrome patina. 83-3/4 x 64 x 4...

Description

Dave McGary (American, 1958-2013)
Bear's Nest, 1994
Bronze with polychrome patina
83-3/4 x 64 x 41-1/2 inches (212.7 x 162.6 x 105.4 cm) (overall)
Ed. 9/9
Inscribed with artist's thumbprint seal on base: Dave McGary / 1994 / (cipher) / 9/9

PROVENANCE:
Private collection, Winnetka, Illinois.

Among McGary's most celebrated pieces is Bear's Nest, a sculpture that stands as a testament to his mastery of form and his dedication to honoring Indigenous heritage. Bear's Nest was first completed in the early 1990s and exists in multiple editions, including small masterworks, busts, and this monumental life-size version. McGary produced only nine casts of the life-size sculpture, making it a rare and highly sought-after work within his oeuvre. The subject is a Native American figure, rendered with striking precision and character. McGary's hallmark technique of using polychrome bronze brings an added vitality to the piece, allowing him to depict skin tones, beadwork, textiles, and natural materials with extraordinary authenticity. This lifelike quality transforms the sculpture from a mere representation into a vivid evocation of history and tradition.

The title Bear's Nest evokes the symbolic importance of the bear in Native American spirituality. The bear is frequently associated with courage, strength, and healing, qualities that resonate deeply within tribal narratives. By choosing this motif, McGary not only acknowledges the cultural reverence for the animal but also weaves these values into the figure itself. The sculpture, therefore, becomes a living reminder of the strength and resilience of Native peoples, rooted in both their connection to nature and their spiritual traditions. One of the most significant achievements of Bear's Nest is its monumental life-size edition. At this scale, the piece commands a powerful presence, immersing viewers in the physical and emotional world of its subject. The monumental form allows McGary's attention to detail, such as the texture of a garment, the subtle expression of the face, or the intricate beadwork, to become even more striking. For those who encounter one of these casts in person, the sculpture transcends its artistic form, becoming a profound cultural statement.

The life-size version of Bear's Nest is part of McGary's larger legacy of monumental works installed in museums, state capitols, and public spaces across the United States. These pieces were designed not only for private collectors but also to share Native American stories with a broader audience. While smaller editions of Bear's Nest are housed in museum collections, the life-size casts extend McGary's vision into the realm of public art, where they can inspire dialogue about heritage, identity, and resilience. Bear's Nest exemplifies Dave McGary's unique ability to merge artistic excellence with cultural storytelling. By combining the permanence of bronze with polychrome techniques, he ensured that his subjects would live vibrantly across generations. The rarity of the nine life-size casts adds to the sculpture's significance, underscoring both its artistic and cultural value. Through Bear's Nest, McGary leaves behind not just a beautiful work of art, but a lasting tribute to the Native communities whose histories he sought to honor and preserve.


More information about Dave McGary. See also: McGary, Dave Artist.

Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000.

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