Legion 2016

Joshua Flint created this painting, Legion, using oil on canvas. In it, he presents an ambiguous scene of women eating, perhaps alluding to themes of consumption or social expectations. The image is both familiar and unsettling. The work conjures up the visual language of mid-20th century advertisements and social gatherings, a time when women were often portrayed in very specific roles, with their bodies on display. The act of consuming spaghetti can be seen as both a mundane activity and a symbol of indulgence. The title Legion might evoke the idea of conformity, suggesting a critique of the pressures placed on women to adhere to social norms. To fully appreciate the work, we can look at period magazines and advertising, examining how women were represented and the values that were promoted. Considering the artist's personal background and intentions can also provide valuable context. In the end, the meaning of any artwork emerges from the social and institutional conditions in which it is made and viewed.