Iconic Sculptor: Ron Lee

Best known for his clown sculptures, artist Ron Lee created pieces which brought smiles to faces the world over.

Born in Southern California in 1947, he began carving model ships at age 12. Moving to sculpture as a teen, he learned the art of “lost wax” casting from his father. His original clown, “Hobo Joe,” came out of poverty throughout the Great Depression years. Many other clown sculptures were originally based on Emmett Kelly and his son Emmett Kelly Jr., who were well known as circus performers and actors for many years.

Not only did Lee sculpt clowns, he created figurines and sculptures of other circus performers, as well as commissions for Disney, Warner Brothers, Marvel, and DC Comics. He worked for over 45 years, mostly in Southern California. His art became one of the largest collections of limited edition sculptures in the world.

His work is easily recognizable by its bright colors, quirky characters, and tiny gold beads scattered on the base of many of his pieces. Many of his sculptures are set on marble, onyx, or quartz bases. He signed each piece and many are dated and numbered as well. While sculpture was his primary form of art he dabbled in painting as well. His paintings are rare, but are as fun and colorful as his sculptures. There are also limited edition cast pewter pieces made by him. 

The sculpture above of the Circus Elephant was originally a gift to a friend. The name has been removed for privacy. The fact that this item was a personal gift from Ron makes it all the more special. This particular sculpture is also quite rare as very few were made.

Ron passed away in 2017, but his art remains and continues to make people smile the world over.