Artist Dan Tague has created a social and political commentary collection entitled “Cash Rules Everything Around Me†that is currently shown at the Jonathan Ferrara Gallery in New Orleans (until 19 April, 2008). His art makes a statement about the appeal and power of money in our capitalist society, where cash rules everything.
Delicately folded money bills create powerful statements such as, "We Trust Liars", "He is a liar", "God is American", "State of Fear", "The American Idol", "I Hate War", "The Osama Wars", "Hunt For Oil", "The Heat is On", "In God We Trust, Serve The State", and "Trust No One.. Liar".
The bill is then photographed and blown up on archival rag paper (about 15 to 30 inches big) and framed. You will have to pay much more than the bill's actual worth though, pieces sell for $600 to $1000. How fitting!!
Dan Tague explains that, "in order to convey the allure of cash I relied on the aesthetic qualities of the bills. Detailed decorative engravings, masterful portraits and architectural renderings, and elegant fonts create a decadent allure. I further the effect with folds and twists to abstract the imagery and create a collage of wonderful images.
Folding the bills has another purpose to create narrative. The folds are precise and calculated in order to convey messages amidst the appeal of the abstracted imagery. The messages are political in nature ranging from local issues directed at rebuilding New Orleans with phrases like Unite NOLA and Home is a Tent. The proceeds of this photograph go to UNITY of Greater New Orleans to help out with the homeless crisis in our city. Other messages relate issues of terror and war with State of Fear and Hunt for Oil. While others deal with religion, God is American, and politicians, Trust No One. Then there is the ultimate praise of money in a capitalist world as the The American Idol."
See the whole collection here.
Money Statement Art
Cash Rules Everything Around Me
Trend Themes
1. Political Statement Art - Opportunity for artists and galleries to explore political and social commentary through unconventional mediums such as money bills.
2. Abstracted Imagery - Potential for new forms of art to be created through precise folding and twisting of bills to convey narrative beyond aesthetic qualities.
3. Art and Philanthropy - Artists have the ability to make a positive impact on society through their creations and contribute to meaningful causes with the proceeds.
Industry Implications
1. Fine Art - Gallery owners and art collectors can invest in unique and thought-provoking pieces that challenge the norms of traditional art.
2. Non-profit - Organizations can partner with artists to create artwork that raises awareness and funds for social and political issues.
3. Marketing and Advertising - Brands can collaborate with artists to create unconventional advertisements that align with their values and resonate with their target audience.