KETNA PATEL ART STUDIO
THE FALL OF VENUS
THE FALL OF VENUS
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THE FALL OF VENUS
(HETEROTOPIA collection by British Indian POP Artist Ketna Patel)
This artwork offers a contemporary reinterpretation of Sandro Botticelli's renowned masterpiece, "The Birth of Venus," presenting a powerful commentary on the complexities of our modern world. Set 526 years after Botticelli's creation, it serves as a poignant reflection on the societal shifts and challenges that have unfolded over the centuries.
Deliberately weaving together elements of grand narratives and Renaissance iconography, the artist invites viewers to contemplate the state of our contemporary culture. The choice of imagery is deliberate, aiming to flatten time and blur geographical boundaries, ultimately highlighting the interconnectedness of global events and cultures.
At the heart of the artwork is the symbolic transformation of Venus into the Statue of Liberty, a potent representation of the ideals of freedom and democracy. However, this iconic figure is depicted in a state of disrepair, her torch extinguished and her form tattered, symbolizing the erosion of these values in the face of rampant consumerism and corporate greed.
Beneath the Statue of Liberty lies a shell, once a symbol of beauty and birth, now emblazoned with the logo of the petroleum company SHELL, spilling its toxic influence into the ocean. This juxtaposition serves as a stark reminder of the environmental degradation and exploitation wrought by industrialization and unchecked capitalism.
Chairman Mao, adorned with a Superman cape, stands in for Zephyr, the God of the West wind, symbolizing the ascendancy of East Asia and the challenges posed by its growing influence. His attempt to subjugate India, represented by Draupadi from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, underscores the power dynamics at play in the region.
Yet, amidst the darkness and chaos, there is a glimmer of hope. Draupadi, despite the threat she faces, remains protected by the divine intervention of Krishna, symbolizing India's enduring spiritual heritage and resilience in the face of adversity.
As viewers delve deeper into the layers of symbolism and metaphor within the artwork, they are prompted to reflect on their own values and beliefs, and to consider the role they play in shaping the world around them. It is a call to action, urging individuals to engage in introspection and collective dialogue, and to work towards a future that is both sustainable and just.
Each Fine Art Print is titled, numbered and signed in Ketna’s handwriting. Depending on each composition’s ‘personality’, colour spectrum and destined geographical location, the Artwork is printed either as a C-Type print on Fuji gloss paper or as a Giclee print on Hahnemuhle Photo Rag paper. (For humid countries e.g Singapore, C-type Fuji paper is advised as it is does not let moisture and mould through). All Prints are made at the most accredited and reputable Printing studios using the best quality fine art archival paper available. The studio meticulously keeps account of each numbered print, including when and who it was sold to, so there is no chance of duplication. Each Fine Art Paper Print comes in an edition of 50, so for the three sizes, the total prints ever made will be 150. Each Metal Print comes in an edition of 25, so for the three sizes, the total prints ever made will be 75. Each Acrylic Print comes in an edition of 10, so for the three sizes, the total prints ever made will be 30. For each composition, there are up to 5 Artists Proofs for colour and production quality checks. The total edition for each artwork is therefore 260. Each Print is made to order. Please allow 10 working days for delivery. UK delivery is free; everywhere else £25 extra.
