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About the Picture
The title of this work is a literal explanation; it is a bad party. Structurally the composition moves around a spiral, finding
its centre at the base of the discarded bouquet. At a basic level the motion replicates the nauseous instability induced
by excessive drinking. However, there is more than alcohol fuelling this vortex. Two figures situated towards the back of
the room have arrived dressed as birds. Between them they carry a large rolled carpet. The metaphor is obvious: the rug
has been pulled from beneath the feet of the guests. A feeling of panic, or social collapse ricochets through the scene.
A blind man already disorientated, looses his bearing, as his animal instincts (guide dog) looks on. An old woman casts
the shadow of a lightening struck tree. And a dwarf wearing a baby’s bonnet stands outside the chaos and judges. The
figures worst effected, at the centre of the swirl are swept off their feet – but without any implication of romantic
fervour. The result is a failed Bacchanalia, a non-party.
Click on the image to see the picture in more detail.
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