Provenance: Acquired directly from the artist

ABOUT THE WORK

The works of Charlie Co are a visual treat of symbolism. Swimming in humor and wit, Co toes sarcasm and pointed criticism in his vibrant surrealist pieces, a staple of the political and socially aware art he had been known for in the early years of his career. In this 2002 work, Co’s Surrealist art style takes center stage as multiple elements meld together to create an interestingly cohesive storyline. This painting focuses on the pig-human hybrid decked in a jester costume. Standing on his two legs, the pig-human has a feathered cloak in a childish pattern wrapped around his shoulders and a tin crown lying on his head. His hands are clasped as though in prayer. The symbolism is striking and obvious in its simplicity. Other than the pig-human, several other elements further emphasize the absurdity and surrealism of the piece. An angel clad in full armor and a flaming sword wrestles with a dragon-serpent whose tail wraps around a miniature planet. The back of a chair is reimagined to be a theater stage, complete with a red curtain and stage props. Personal symbolism comes together in the works of Co. A practicing Catholic and a social artist, these often contradicting themes both clash and blend harmoniously within his body of works. He puts up a mirror against the world’s lust, avarice, and greed and offers no solution – instead, he depicts them as they are, translated through the lens of his wry and witty style. (Hannah Valiente)