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Small Museum of Folk Art

Pittsboro, NC

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452, Vollis Simpson, Airplane Whirligig

Airplane Whirligig

By Vollis Simpson

Artist Info

Born: 1919 (North Carolina)
Died: 2013 (North Carolina)

About Vollis Simpson

Vollis, who lived outside of Wilson, North Carolina, never called himself an artist, but, after days working at moving houses and repairing machinery, he would spend his extra time constructing fantastical whirligigs from spare parts and erecting them in his yard. Referencing weather vanes but also popular culture and local signage, his enormous windmills became a popular attraction, drawing many visitors to the crossroads outside his workshop, and eventually the attention of international art collections. Many of his creations can now be seen at the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park in downtown Wilson, which is dedicated to the work of restoring and preserving these vibrant, colorful and dynamic pieces for the community and future generations of visitors.

Learn More and See Additional Works by This Artist

Art Description

Date: 2006

Signed and dated under the wing.

Art Details

Viewing Status:
Collection: Jim Massey
Accession Number: 452

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Supported by a Grassroots Arts Grant from

The Small Museum of Folk Art
219 East Street
Pittsboro, NC 27312
919-642-3866
smallmuseumfolkart@gmail.com

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