This series is based off Roy Lichtenstein’s “Drowning Girl”. In the original, the drowning girl says, “I don’t care! I’d rather sink – than call Brad for help!” Even in the face of danger and doom, the girl chooses to preserve her pride and dignity rather than call for “Brad”. There is a dark humor in that stubbornness. It may seem foolish but at the moment makes sense and becomes a determined decision for the girl.

My version says, “I don’t care! This is not a Lichtenstein –”. The sentiment carries the same sense self-worth (or lack thereof) and foolish pride as the original drowning girl. However, with this work

I also want to show a true sense of determination. I want the viewer to see that the work wants to exist, but exist on its own merit. It would rather die than become a Lichtenstein.

A true artist wants to be himself. Wants to exist as himself and be recognized as himself. He wants his works to carry his name and stand on their own. He wants to be his own brand. He wants to be discovered and be able to carve his own path. He wants his works to sell for themselves and not because of his name. He wants his work to be respected and his name to be remembered. Even if it is not a name in the same light as a Lichtenstein.