The Red Queen 

Cassidy Rae Marietta's "The Red Queen" deploys a rich tapestry of ornamental detail to construct a visually striking composition. The symmetrical layout, dominated by warm hues of orange and brown, evokes a sense of both opulence and underlying tension. The Queen's figure, framed by elaborate patterns, presents a complex interplay between surface decoration and symbolic depth. Marietta's use of line and shape creates a flattened space reminiscent of Byzantine iconography, yet the inclusion of the laser gun disrupts any simple reading of historical or cultural context. It challenges our assumptions, creating a semiotic puzzle that invites multiple interpretations. The ornate border functions not just as a decorative frame but as an integral part of the artwork's discourse. In this way, Marietta challenges conventional notions of beauty.