The outrageous juxtaposition of Jaques-Louis David’s classical characters from 1772 with the balloon dog bring a complex melodrama, a wry humour to a once desperate scene. The art is a...
The outrageous juxtaposition of Jaques-Louis David’s classical characters from 1772 with the balloon dog bring a complex melodrama, a wry humour to a once desperate scene. The art is a complex montage, much inspired by life in 2020, an intentional melange of icons, cultures, pop, and art. Ralf explains: “In this depiction a stage play comes to life, the flirtatious Niobe, is saying ’no’ to a rose of love, but clearly without sincerity, possibly quite enamoured with the naked figure. Meanwhile surrounded by the cast of actors, preoccupied with selfie sticks, Apple Watches and Trump’s golf clubs…yes they’re here!. The balloon dog, a reference to contemporary pop culture, dominates, intentionally ridiculous. Americans struggle in the background with a flag of equality.A set of jacks (a centuries old game) that you’ll also find referenced or hidden in all Ralf’s work…symbolises ‘play’ which is what art means to Ralf, pure play. And of course Ralf himself, the Cairn Terrier is hidden in every artwork. And there is much more to find.