Exit Empire II Print

This painting (and the Exit Empire series as a whole) are a study on the decline of Western influence on geopolitical and socioeconomic power structures in the 21st century and beyond. I chose to incorporate graphic variations on the American flag because of its recognition across the globe as the modern and historical icon of unparalleled wealth and power. It is my hope to illicit feelings of appreciation for the myriad gifts the American experiment has provided by helping transition and deliver humankind from many of its 19th and 20th Century ills, Additionally, I want these pieces to draw attention to the real possibility of a post de-centralized global power structure that will be needed to further the peaceful progress of our species into the 21st century. With regard to materials, I chose to represent the above-mentioned decay by using heavy, rough textures and loosely woven fabrics as if to represent a macro view of a fibers of a vintage flag as they start to loosen and fray.