Oscar Wilde, 2022
Acrylic on canvas.
80 x 100 cm
Signature in the lower right corner.
Frame not included
Oscar Wilde was born on October 16, 1851, in Dublin, Ireland. Wilde was the most acclaimed playwright of his time and author of novels such as "The Important of Being Ernest" and Dorian Gray's portraits, but as he said: he himself was his greatest work of art.
Oscar Wilde was known for his wayward expression both in terms of clothing and his expression in the culture of London, England. In 1894, Wilde risked prosecution for homosexual acts. He did not choose, like others in his position, to flee the continent. Even though he previously had a long internal conflict over his own sexual orientation.
He believed that his status and popularity, his eloquence and charm would save him. Instead, he was sentenced to 2 years of penal servitude, and almost all of his friends turned their back on him. He was never allowed to see his own children again. He died destitute, alone in a small hotel room in Paris. 1900.
For Michaelartz, "Oscar Wilde" becomes a symbol of choosing your own path and following your passion. But also to stand up for your values. As Wilde said: Be yourself; Everyone else is already taken.
