This painting by Devan Shimoyama reinterprets the twenty-first card of the Major Arcana in the Rider-Waite Tarot deck.
The artist has replaced the card's nude figure with an image of himself. While often depicted as a woman, this central character has been interpreted as hermaphroditic, representing the union of male and female, heaven and earth.
As in the original, the figure is accompanied by four creatures-an eagle, lion, ox, and human-the last of which is also a likeness of the artist. The surrounding wreath becomes a snake consuming its tail, an ancient symbol of infinity originating in Ancient Egypt and widely used in Western alchemy and occultism.
In this and other paintings, Shimoyama uses sequins, glitter, rhinestones, neon paint, and other seductive materials, aligning his work with the ornate splendor of Catholic icons, memories of family dressed for church in their Sunday best, and the glamour of drag and ballroom culture.
Steven Arnold
Steven Arnold
A vibrant artwork depicting a muscular merman with colorful features, wearing sunglasses and surrounded by swirling waves. In the background, a police officer, a woman, and a dramatic sunset with distant cliffs and a lighthouse are visible.
A fabulous show at the #palmsprings art museum: “A Queer Arcana: Art, Magic, and Spirit”
#California #art