title: if zeus was tender
size: 16 in x 20 in
medium: acrylic on professional canvas paper
year: 2020

About this piece:
"If Zeus Was Tender" depicts a surrealist portrait of Zeus, the God of Thunder, re-imagined as a tender, loving, modern-day hipster (who is most likely vegan). The piece features many references to the Classical Greek Mythological figure, from the olive branch in his man bun, to his delightful animal friends. Instead of the famous olive wreath crown from his past life, modern Zeus ties up his locks with a single olive branch, paying homage to his past all-mighty self, while honouring his current climate-changing environment. His beautiful eagle friend, traditionally an emblem of victory, sits on his shoulder reminding us that coming together as a community, together we win. In the classical story of Zeus, he transforms into a white bull to deceive others and satisfy his own desires. Tender Zeus is not interested in harming others or bad karmic practices. Instead, he kisses and cradles the bull for the magnificent creature that it is, spreading love and joy wherever he goes. His tattooed thunderbolt pays tribute to his dark beginnings, while the "like" of the eagle expresses the new digital age in which he thrives, tweeting and sharing his stories about love, empowerment, and respecting all living beings.

I've paired the piece with this quote: "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." - Dalai Lama.

How it was made:
My original paintings are created with quality acrylic paint on either gallery wrapped or traditional canvas (or in this case, canvas paper!). Each piece holds a special vibration and energy as I only paint when I'm feeling inspired. In addition, I varnish each of my creations with a UV topcoat, to preserve the colours from the harsh rays of the sun. I build custom boxes to ship each handmade painting in, and when assembling, I use as many recycled materials as possible, being mindful of our environment. I hope this special painting can bring you the love and joy it brought me while painting it. :)

*This piece is unframed.
Colours may differ slightly on screen and in person.
Please note: mock ups do not reflect true size