CONTEMPORARY VIRGINIA STATE FLAG RE-DESIGN
This creative project took several years to come to fruition and was selected for presentation at the 2019 International Visual Sociology Association (IVSA) Annual Conference in Sarasota Springs NY
Virginia was one of the first states established in the USA. The seal features Virtus, the Goddess of Justice from Roman Mythology. She is armed and standing triumphantly over a slain ruler. Below is the phrase Sic Semper Tyrannis translated to “this always for tyrants.” Virtus’ exposed breast is the only nudity to appear on any state seal.
The fight against injustice and oppression is a topic that is very relevant today. With a few modern alterations we can view the image in a contemporary context that will hopefully produce thoughtful conversation.
Important changes...
-An invasive Kudzu vine borders the image rather than the traditional native plant.
-The Latin phrase appears in Spanish, which is a more culturally relevant language in relation to current events in Virginia and the country as a whole.
-The word Virginia does not actually appear on the seal; this might challenge the authority of states and borders in general.
-Models were photographed and blended into the illustration. One major result is the exposed nude breast challenges the boundaries of what is acceptable visually and why.
-The tyrant has modern clothing intended to raise the question of who today’s tyrants are. The model is the artist himself suggesting that we must first analyze our own actions when addressing injustice.
-Virtus has the traditional clothing and accessories emphasizing the belief that tyrants change, but Justice is everlasting.
The fight against injustice and oppression is a topic that is very relevant today. With a few modern alterations we can view the image in a contemporary context that will hopefully produce thoughtful conversation.
Important changes...
-An invasive Kudzu vine borders the image rather than the traditional native plant.
-The Latin phrase appears in Spanish, which is a more culturally relevant language in relation to current events in Virginia and the country as a whole.
-The word Virginia does not actually appear on the seal; this might challenge the authority of states and borders in general.
-Models were photographed and blended into the illustration. One major result is the exposed nude breast challenges the boundaries of what is acceptable visually and why.
-The tyrant has modern clothing intended to raise the question of who today’s tyrants are. The model is the artist himself suggesting that we must first analyze our own actions when addressing injustice.
-Virtus has the traditional clothing and accessories emphasizing the belief that tyrants change, but Justice is everlasting.