When I started the painting called, US Revolution, I was inspired by Presidential candidate, Bernie Sanders, who wanted money out of politics, a higher minimum wage and healthcare for all. I have painted him trying to rein in the Wall Street bull with a chain. But Donald Trump and his fat cats won the election and 10 years of more or less havoc have ensued. When I painted this painting, Bernie was still in the race, so to honour hope, I added tiny buds on the otherwise barren tree and a stream of people joining his movement from over the hill. I knew his chances were slim back then, but it seems that hope has returned during the midterms. Frost and ‘ICE’ could still destroy the buds, and Donald Trump is still not facing justice, but for now, for today, I will hold onto hope. I also think there are more people who see the beast and its worshippers for what they are now than before.
