Wazooza from the collection of Michael Lawrence Fine Art and Studios

War, Industry, Death

Michael Lawrence

Wazooza

Oil On Canvas

48 x 48 x 1 in (121.92 x 121.92 x 2.54 cm)

Inv: ML2000-OPC-26

NFS

Not For Sale

Location: Berkeley, Gallery

Wazooza - by Michael Lawrence | This striking artwork of War and Industry delves into themes of decay and mythology, presenting a surreal landscape that evokes a sense of both darkness and contemplation. At its center, a winged figure stands atop a rocky hill, surrounded by haunting relics of the past and present—skeletons, masks, a socialite, and ancient vessels—each element rich with symbolism. The backdrop of swirling fire clouds and distant celestial bodies adds an otherworldly dimension, inviting viewers to explore the interplay between life, death, and the remnants of history. This piece not only challenges perceptions but also serves as a thought-provoking addition to any space, encouraging reflection and dialogue.

Michaels Inspiration for this painting was during the Aids crisis. A lot of friends of his died during this time, and death hit too closely to home.

The catalyst for the images in the painting, the Fire combustion in the background was from an article he saw back then of a factory in Europe that was producing life threatening pollution. Wazooza was a middle eastern demon deity, that was portrayed in the Exorsist films, representing the death that was abundant at that time in Michaels life.

A New York socialite, beauty and wealth didn’t matter, all were affected in one way or another. A Peruvian mummy he had read about and objects from the tomb the mummy was found in, made him think of his own mortality and what to do if death came for him. G-force face, a symbol of not being able to control our lives or trying to keep death at bay. A desiccated dog from Alaska that Michael Lawrence had seen in a news article, also reflects the nature of death. His love of animals and life, reflect that all life is transitory. In essence this is a commentary on what humanity has done to the planet. By the eradication of species and the emissions of greenhouse gasses. It is a grim forecast of what our potential destination is.

The theme of ecology, infuses many of Michaels paintings and his hope for a better planet. The Aids crisis was a force of how nature strikes back Very similar to what we all experienced during the Covid Pandemic. The ultimate destination in life, is its cessation.

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Additional Details

Additional Artworks

Earth, 2005

Mikes Diner, c. 2000

Marilyn and the Temple of Skulls, c. 2000

THE EVANGELIST, c. 2000

Memory of the Atomic Heart, 1992

The Cave of Shadow and Despair, 1991

THE FACE OF JOY, 1989

Water