Click images to view larger:
Clarence Heyward
Words from the artist:
Based on the context of the literary folktale written by Danish author Hans Christian Anderson, this iteration of the “EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES”, speaks to the modern day idolization of fortune and fame.
The painting has personal and popular cultural references. For example in popular rap culture, it is customary to purchase a set of gold teeth as a symbol of success. Something I did upon obtaining enough money, even though I wasn’t very successful. Reverence is given to people who seem to be successful. For that reason the background is painted green. It is a reference to chroma key technology ( a visual-effect technology used in newscasting, movie and video gaming industries) in which the facade of wealth can be created. Other symbolic references include the golden halo, clothing, etc.
As an idiom, use of the story's title refers to something widely accepted as true or professed as being praiseworthy, due to an unwillingness of the general population to criticize it or be seen as going against popular opinion. The phrase "emperor's new clothes" has become an idiom about logical fallacies.
Title: THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES
Date Created: 2020
Materials: Acrylic and gold leaf on canvas
Dimensions: 48” x 60”
Price: $4000. To Purchase, e-mail george@lumpprojects.org
Artist Website: clarenceheyward.com