The Devil’s Alphabet, 2020
Solution on black velvet
36 x 36 inches
A hybrid of a crossword puzzle and scrabble game, that when figured out, form a popular saying and its associated acronym. The words are comprised of 26 letters, with number values that add up to 26 as well, hence “The Devil’s Alphabet”. This artwork references a time in our history where a great deal of fear is being generated via the widespread dissemination of misinformation, making it difficult for the general population to discern fact from fiction.
The Devil’s Alphabet, 2020
Solution on black velvet
36 x 36 inches
A hybrid of a crossword puzzle and scrabble game, that when figured out, form a popular saying and its associated acronym. The words are comprised of 26 letters, with number values that add up to 26 as well, hence “The Devil’s Alphabet”. This artwork references a time in our history where a great deal of fear is being generated via the widespread dissemination of misinformation, making it difficult for the general population to discern fact from fiction.
1. The Birth of Black Velvet:
The early history of black velvet paintings is spotty, however some historians maintain that the artform has its official roots in Kashmir. Russian Orthodox priests are among the first to incorporate this material into paintings, which were typically religious in nature.
2. Hitchhiking With Marco Polo:
Circa 1271-1295. Some of these early black velvet paintings travel with Marco Polo along the Silk Road
3. Arrival in Europe:
These paintings find their way all the way back to Europe, where some hang in the Vatican Museums to this day.
© 2021 by Charity Algarme.