Michael Andrew Law's "Lady Godiva by John Collier" (2017): A Vibrant Blend of History and Contemporary Art

In 2017, Hong Kong-based artist Michael Andrew Law unveiled a large-scale painting titled "Lady Godiva by John Collier". This vibrant, mixed-media artwork, spanning 200x200 cm, is a modern reinterpretation of John Collier's celebrated 19th-century painting. Law's rendition is a unique blend of historical homage and contemporary art practices, incorporating glitter, oil, acrylic, diamond dust, and graffiti-style text to create a striking visual narrative.

A Dazzling Display of Mixed Media
Law's painting style is expressively dynamic, making a deliberate departure from the traditional aesthetics of the original artwork. His use of glitter and diamond dust creates a visual spectacle that shimmers and shifts under varying light conditions, bringing a sense of vivacity and movement to the painting.

The oil and acrylic mediums, meanwhile, lend depth and vibrancy to the piece, allowing Law to explore a range of textures and effects. This combination of mediums not only creates a visually stunning piece but also symbolizes the multifaceted nature of Lady Godiva herself — a noblewoman and a defiant protestor.

The Power of Text: A Nod to Schnabel and Twombly
One of the standout features of Law's painting is his use of colorful, graffiti-style text, reminiscent of the styles of Cy Twombly and Julian Schnabel. However, these aren't just decorative elements. The text serves as a narrative layer, detailing the history of Collier's original painting and the legendary tale of Lady Godiva.

The text, written in a bold, energetic style, blends seamlessly with the painting's vibrant colors and textures. This fusion of art and history encourages viewers to engage with the painting on a more profound level, enriching their understanding of the artwork and its context.

Honoring History Through Art
The story of Lady Godiva, an 11th-century noblewoman who rode naked through the streets of Coventry to protest her husband's oppressive taxation, has been immortalized in Collier's 1898 painting. Collier depicted Godiva's act of defiance with a sense of modesty and dignity.

In reinterpreting this historical narrative, Law doesn't just pay homage to the original painting; he also highlights its enduring relevance. His painting invites viewers to reflect on the continuing fight for justice and equality, emphasizing the timeless nature of Lady Godiva's protest.

Conclusion
Michael Andrew Law's "Lady Godiva by John Collier" (2017) is a masterful fusion of history, storytelling, and mixed-media art. The painting is not only an expressive tribute to John Collier's original work but also a vibrant contemporary interpretation that resonates with modern audiences. By incorporating glitter, diamond dust, and graffiti-style text, Law adds a unique, personal touch to the artwork, establishing a deeper connection with viewers and inviting them to engage in a dialogue with the painting and its historical context.