I am the Consumer

graphite, cross-stitched embroidery thread, and Swarovski crystals on Arches paper

image : 48 x 26 inches

frame: 60 x 40 inches

I use self-portraits in the same manner that an actor uses a role; although the self-portrait may be as a character in a fantasized narrative, there is always a little of my self still present (in addition to the likeness). In the drawing I am the Consumer, the self-portrait becomes an accomplice and participant in the global transgressions that take place in the present-day intertwined world of trade and politics.

Detail images:

Detail with cross-stitched embroidery thread and the Swarovski crystals. This is actually two drawings - the center panel is cross-stitched onto the back panel (2 separate sheets of paper)

Detail with the Swarovski crystals - these are hand-stitched into the drawing