Provenance: Private Collection, Manila

ABOUT THE WORK

Social realist Mark Justiniani, during the eighties, painted unflinching symbol-laden paintings that serve as critical and combative commentaries on socio-political issues and identity. His later works still deal with the many facets of the Filipino consciousness and history, but in a more matured approach and style that developed over the years of his artistic growth. Along with his masterful technique and insightful depictions, Justiniani has led viewers not merely in asking questions but also in a moment of introspection on narratives both part of history or still happening. This thought-provoking piece presents Justiniani’s fascinating version of the national personification of America, Uncle Sam, face-to-face with a Filipino who has to step into a chair to be able to reach the human icon’s hand to show respect. The title itself is suggestive, inviting one to ponder on national identity and the implications of colonialism in the ways of thinking of Filipinos, translated into the canvas through an inward-looking approach than the usual goal to create evocative social realist works.