In the world of contemporary art, Michael Andrew Law’s 2016 oil and acrylic mixed media painting on linen canvas, “God Save the Queen,” stands as a testament to the artist’s creative genius and his ability to blend different artistic styles and techniques. Hailing from the series “Contemporary Pop,” sometimes referred to as “Modern Day Lichtenstein,” this painting showcases the artist’s unique approach to art and his knack for transforming popular culture into something profoundly artistic.

Composition and Inspiration

Law’s “God Save the Queen” is a complex amalgamation of different artistic influences. The composition takes inspiration from Roy Lichtenstein’s Imperfect and Reflections series, the abstraction and dissection of Tangram shapes, and the fractured aesthetic of Georg Baselitz’s paintings. This combination of influences gives the artwork a multifaceted quality, allowing it to be appreciated on multiple levels.

Law’s application of Lichtenstein’s techniques is particularly noteworthy. Like Lichtenstein’s Imperfect series, “God Save the Queen” features elements that seem intentionally ‘off,’ challenging the viewer’s perception and understanding of the work. The Reflections series influence is seen in the painting’s complex layering and reflections, adding depth and a sense of dynamism.

The painting also echoes Georg Baselitz’s Fracture paintings series, with its disrupted and rearranged depictions. This gives the painting a sense of chaos and movement, which contrasts beautifully with Law’s classical realistic painting technique.

Stencils, Color Design, and Lines

Law’s extensive use of stencils in “God Save the Queen” contributes to its distinct look. The stencils create crisp, clean lines and shapes, lending the artwork a modern, graphic quality. This, combined with the painting’s striking color design and the use of lines, makes the artwork visually engaging and memorable.

The colors in “God Save the Queen” are inspired by Britain’s national flag, a patriotic tribute that gives the painting its name. Law’s skillful mix and match of these colors, combined with his classical realistic painting technique, creates a sense of harmonious contradiction. The stark contrasts and bold colors of the flag are softened by Law’s nuanced color use, resulting in a work that is both modern and timeless.

Subject Matter

The subject of “God Save the Queen” is inspired by a famous photograph of the Queen by Dorothy Wilding. Law’s interpretation of this iconic image offers a new perspective on the Queen, transforming her from a figure of traditional authority into a symbol of contemporary culture. By incorporating elements of pop art and modern design, Law challenges the viewer to see the Queen in a new light.

Conclusion

“God Save the Queen” is a testament to Michael Andrew Law’s innovative approach to art. By blending different artistic styles and techniques, Law creates a work that is both familiar and fresh. This painting offers a unique interpretation of popular culture, challenging and engaging the viewer in equal measure. It stands as a shining example of Law’s ability to reimagine the familiar, and his contribution to the world of contemporary art.

The Groundbreaking Mixed Media Work: “God Save the Queen” by Michael Andrew Law
In the world of contemporary art, Michael Andrew Law’s 2016 oil and acrylic mixed media painting on linen canvas, “God Save the Queen,” stands as a testament to the artist’s creative genius and his ability to blend different artistic styles and techniques. Hailing from the series “Contemporary Pop,” sometimes referred to as “Modern Day Lichtenstein,” this painting showcases the artist’s unique approach to art and his knack for transforming popular culture into something profoundly artistic.

Composition and Inspiration
Law’s “God Save the Queen” is a complex amalgamation of different artistic influences. The composition takes inspiration from Roy Lichtenstein’s Imperfect and Reflections series, the abstraction and dissection of Tangram shapes, and the fractured aesthetic of Georg Baselitz’s paintings. This combination of influences gives the artwork a multifaceted quality, allowing it to be appreciated on multiple levels.

Law’s application of Lichtenstein’s techniques is particularly noteworthy. Like Lichtenstein’s Imperfect series, “God Save the Queen” features elements that seem intentionally ‘off,’ challenging the viewer’s perception and understanding of the work. The Reflections series influence is seen in the painting’s complex layering and reflections, adding depth and a sense of dynamism.

The painting also echoes Georg Baselitz’s Fracture paintings series, with its disrupted and rearranged depictions. This gives the painting a sense of chaos and movement, which contrasts beautifully with Law’s classical realistic painting technique.

Stencils, Color Design, and Lines
Law’s extensive use of stencils in “God Save the Queen” contributes to its distinct look. The stencils create crisp, clean lines and shapes, lending the artwork a modern, graphic quality. This, combined with the painting’s striking color design and the use of lines, makes the artwork visually engaging and memorable.

The colors in “God Save the Queen” are inspired by Britain’s national flag, a patriotic tribute that gives the painting its name. Law’s skillful mix and match of these colors, combined with his classical realistic painting technique, creates a sense of harmonious contradiction. The stark contrasts and bold colors of the flag are softened by Law’s nuanced color use, resulting in a work that is both modern and timeless.

Subject Matter
The subject of “God Save the Queen” is inspired by a famous photograph of the Queen by Dorothy Wilding. Law’s interpretation of this iconic image offers a new perspective on the Queen, transforming her from a figure of traditional authority into a symbol of contemporary culture. By incorporating elements of pop art and modern design, Law challenges the viewer to see the Queen in a new light.

Conclusion
“God Save the Queen” is a testament to Michael Andrew Law’s innovative approach to art. By blending different artistic styles and techniques, Law creates a work that is both familiar and fresh. This painting offers a unique interpretation of popular culture, challenging and engaging the viewer in equal measure. It stands as a shining example of Law’s ability to reimagine the familiar, and his contribution to the world of contemporary art.