Modern, large scale social commentary painting by California artist John Valdez. Comes with the original sketch as well as a book about the artist. Inspired by the cover of a Mexican tabloid, Valadez invites the viewer to examine the duality of a society that mourns the death of an iconic religious leader and neglects those close to them who are perhaps deemed not worthy of consideration.
The bold red headline reads “El cardenal Gabiri será beatificado” (Cardinal Gabiri will be beatified) above a large accompanying image of the cardinal in his casket and two smaller images, one of sobbing mourners and another of the cardinal sitting at the altar. Dividing the image is a subhead that reads, “El pueblo católico está de luto” (the Catholic people are mourning) placed above a depiction of four young boys who seem to be sniffing glue. The adjacent text reads “The indifference of the adults is the cause behind the issues these forgotten children have to live.”
This work was exhibited at the Pacific Standard Time, Long Beach Museum of Art in 2011, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in 2012, as well as the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago, IL in 2013. Signed by artist in front lower right corner as well as titled and dated in front lower left corner. Currently unframed, but options are available.
Artist Biography: John Valadez...
Category
1970s Modern Art by Medium: Spray Paint
MaterialsMixed Media, Spray Paint, Felt Pen
