Antonio Susini x Charles Ray

“Both objects embody deities. Christ was the son of God and the flower is literally named Godflower. They each exude a sense of grandiosity. The flower’s supremacy comes from its sheer size, which is larger than the average human. It spans an entire wall from floor to ceiling. Its importance is also emphasized by the large yellow petals that span outwards, emulating the rays of the sun. This adds another layer to its ‘godlike quality’ as the sun was often a central figure in cultures like the Aztecs. Cristo Morto, by contrast, is small enough in size for one to carry. Its heavenly qualities come from its depiction of Christ in gilt bronze and the fact that it’s meant to be portable for private reverence in a household. Thus, the person who had it would always feel near Christ and God, by extension.”

– Annette Garcia, Teen Curator 2019-2020