Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a quintessential 1980s postmodern mixed media artwork featuring hand-cut, curled, and layered paper elements in a soft pastel palette. Titled 'Ups & Dawns' and signed by the artist 'Sanders', it utilizes dimensional paper-sculpting techniques to create a dynamic sense of movement and shadow. The piece is housed in its original, period-correct peach-toned laminate frame with a matching double mat.
Story
Created in the mid-1980s, this artwork perfectly captures the era's obsession with pastel geometry and architectural dimension. The title 'Ups & Dawns' playfully references both the physical rising of the paper strips and the soft, early-morning light suggested by the pink and teal palette.
Maker / Origin
The signature 'Sanders' points to a regional studio artist active during the height of the 1980s design boom, when custom paper collages were highly sought after for contemporary homes and corporate offices. While not a household name, artists like Sanders defined the visual landscape of the decade through accessible, high-design gallery pieces.
Condition & Value
The artwork appears to be in good vintage condition with the paper curls retaining their shape. There is some minor dust accumulation under the glass and light wear to the vintage wooden frame, which is typical for its age. Keeping it in its original frame preserves its historical integrity and value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.