Post-Washington Portrait: Ballroom Blitz

This works is based of a digital scan from the 1819 bust of George Washington in Imperial Roman attire attributed to Massimiliano Ravenna as a copy of an original from 1792 by Giuseppe Ceracchi. I’m utilizing a3d print from a digital copy of an analog a copy of a sculpture made 200 years ago referencing the aesthetics of an empire that ended in 476 AD, digital and analog simulacra and simulations running wild. In this particular piece I’m referencing the literal and metaphorical demolition of the White House, decorating the rubble in gold leaf of course. It seems odd that Washington was willing to be depicted as an emperor, especially after recently fighting to overthrow a king, but maybe it makes sense in light of our current president’s desire to be treated as an emperor and to restyle the presidency as his kingdom.