Martin LaBorde “Bodo & Curley Played High Ball” — Signed, 1997, Ltd Ed. 11/100

Whimsical and boldly expressive, “Bodo & Curley Played High Ball” is a limited edition serigraph by Louisiana artist Martin LaBorde, known for his colorful and humorous character-driven works. Created in 1997, this hand-signed and numbered print (11/100) captures LaBorde’s playful style with a barefoot robed figure tossing a ball under a red, crescent-faced moon while an eager yellow dog named Curley looks on.

The composition is filled with vibrant blocks of red, yellow, green, and blue, layered with sketchy black outlines that enhance its animated, storybook feel. Signed and dated in the lower right and numbered at lower left, the work is presented in a warm rust-red frame with double matting and glass.

A delightful and collectible example of LaBorde’s distinctive narrative art—charming for collectors and admirers of modern folk-inspired prints.

Condition:
In good condition overall. The print surface is clean and colors remain vibrant. Frame shows minor scratches and edge wear consistent with handling, but matting and glass are intact. Please review photos for close-up condition details.

Dimensions:
Overall (framed): 21 x 16 inches
Visible (sight): 16 x 11 inches

Artist Biography: Martin LaBorde

Martin LaBorde, born in 1943 in central Louisiana, is an American artist known for his colorful, symbolic, and often whimsical imagery. A profound influence on his work stems from his early life—LaBorde was born with a hearing impairment that went undiagnosed until his early twenties, resulting in nearly two decades of silence. This heightened his visual sensitivity and helped shape the imaginative, inner world that would later inform his art.

A pivotal moment in LaBorde’s creative journey came in 1973, during a transformative visit to an ancient pyramid in Mexico. It was there that he envisioned “Bodo,” a recurring character who would become central to his body of work. Bodo functions as a spiritual and symbolic guide—often playful, mysterious, and contemplative—appearing in many of LaBorde's prints and paintings alongside companion figures such as the loyal dog, Curley.

LaBorde's work often explores themes of mysticism, alternate realities, and personal transformation. His expressive use of color, layered textures, and narrative style places him within a unique niche of modern folk-inspired and visionary art.

Based for many years in New Orleans, LaBorde has shown extensively, especially through the gallery formerly known as the Martin LaBorde Gallery and later as B.E.E. by the Bay. His resilience, unique life story, and visually rich style have earned him a loyal following and a place in numerous private collections.