Memento Mori Artwork - Limited Edition of 50

This image originated in a found, vintage, B/W photo which probably originated as an advertising photo for the purpose of selling properties. It was highly staged and well lit. Everything in it, seemed to be meticulously arranged and "in-order". Long ago I discovered that ancient Romans had a phrase, "Momento Mori". It literally means "Remember you must die" - but in context, it often means something more like "YOLO" or "Carpe Diem". Basically it meant "Enjoy your life to the fullest because tomorrow is not promised". And although the woman in this photo is relaxing in a luxurious environment, the words "Momento Mori" are haphazardly strewn in physical form, throughout the room. They seem to be the only thing out of place. That is, until we inspect closer. We can see that she has removed her face mask to show us what lies underneath. This entire image seems to have taken on a cartoon reality since she seems to be quite relaxed and unharmed, despite exposing her naked skull to the world for inspection. This image was hand colored, digitally painted, and I also threw in some 3D elements as well. I really worked hard to integrate every element and every detail into a seamless image. Its difficult to see all the meticulous details in an online photo. I pulled out all the stops for this one. (check out the detail pix) This series really just revels in the absurd. Sometimes it's pretty, sometimes it's grotesque. I began this series in oil painting. But as you can see, it's expanded to digital photography and found images as well. All prints are archivally printed on Red River Ultra-Pro Satin. This edition is limited to 50 prints. The paper is acid-free, smooth, and archival (photo matte and 105 gsm). Prints are printed in my studio in New Haven, CT. (watermark is for display purposes only)