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red art club
Cost of living
2023
Oil on Canvas
​Not for sale
Isabella Luciani’s piece depicts imagery from a cost of living crisis protest in the present day, contrasted with an illustration from the French Revolution. This embodies a frustration at the present political state and wealth disparity, whilst highlighting both the historic and growing contrast between rich and poor. The composition places contemporary protest at the centre, framed by a scene from the French Revolution, underscoring historical cycles of economic discontent and social upheaval. The central portion of the painting is a documentation of the current state of a society in the depths of a crisis, revolting through strikes and protests. This layout reflects Isabella's perspective on wealth inequality, informed by her own experiences. Working in oil, Isabella chose this medium for its association with wealth and power, using it to make a satirical statement on class privilege. Isabella specifically selected the French Revolution for its strong parallels to current economic struggles, using iconic imagery such as the beheaded head held aloft to evoke a sense of urgency. This choice encourages viewers to confront the harsh reality of societal fractures and consider the cyclical nature of revolt when power structures remain unchallenged.
ISABELLA LUCIANI
Isabella Luciani’s work challenges audiences to confront the hypocrisies and inconsistencies of modern politics. Driven by a desire to inspire critical thinking, she believes that without learning from history, society risks repeating its mistakes. Her paintings often juxtapose historical elements with contemporary life, inviting viewers to reflect on the recurring patterns that shape political and social issues. Her work delves into themes such as class privilege, social inequality, and the erosion of standards in public life.
Isabella is particularly drawn to political issues in the media, using it as a direct source for her paintings. By appropriating newspaper clippings and images of familiar figureheads, she explores the relationship between representation, depiction, characterisation, and satire. Isabella’s use of oil paints adds a further satirical layer, echoing the upper class’s historical use of the medium as a symbol of wealth and status.
Currently the focus of her practice is to reimagine oil portraiture with subversive messages, prompting the audience to scrutinise the degradation of ethical standards in public life. Informed by media, news, and the working-class communities she is part of, Isabella’s work reflects her response to the growing regional inequalities and wealth disparities dividing the United Kingdom.
Follow Isabella on instagram - @Isabellaluciani_studio
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