Happy Dragon 1973

Editor: Here we have Joseph Domjan's "Happy Dragon." It's a fascinating print, full of explosive energy. What do you see in this piece, beyond the immediate impression of a dragon? Curator: The "Happy Dragon" can be seen as a subversive reclamation of power. Dragons are often symbols of oppression, yet here, Domjan presents a joyful one. How does the dragon's depiction challenge the prevailing narratives of power and dominance? Editor: That's a fantastic point. I never considered the dragon beyond just a mythical creature. Curator: Consider its historical context, too. After WWII, many artists were searching for new visual vocabularies to express trauma and resilience. This dragon could be seen as a refusal to be silenced, its happiness a form of resistance. Editor: Wow, that gives me a completely different perspective on the work. Thanks! Curator: It's a reminder that art can be a powerful tool for social change.