This suite of paintings is based on images appropriated from fashion illustrations found in issues of The Delineator magazine dating from 1907 to 1909.  I decided to add about 20 lbs to each figure, as I am not here to promote the corset. I omitted many of the hats, as they were decorated with bird feathers, many of which are extinct due to the collection of feathers for hats. I enjoy inventing historical or mythological figures and I try at all times to imagine stories about the figures I create. When smart phones became available, the “selfie” or self-portrait photo became popular and I began collaborating with people to create fantasy portraits, based on their selfies. I especially like the idea of a person having the freedom to control their own image, as a primary act of creativity. I tried to create these portraits as if they were imaginary selfies.

Learn more about John by clicking his bio:  https://thievingmagpie.org/john-gamboa-bio/