Inspired by René Magritte’s iconic painting “The Treachery of Images,” this lithograph critiques the pervasive deceit and manipulation by politicians and major media channels aimed at destabilizing American democracy. The monochromatic composition—rendered in stark black, grey, and white—features a seemingly innocuous pipe. However, a closer examination reveals the pipe’s plume of smoke as the burning tip of the American flag. The text “Don’t Believe Your Lying Eyes” boldly challenges viewers to question the reliability of their perceptions.
Through this evocative imagery and provocative message, the piece underscores the destructive impact of gaslighting and poisonous rhetoric on the nation’s democratic ideals. By drawing parallels to Magritte’s work, the artist highlights the dissonance between appearance and reality, urging viewers to recognize the fragility of democracy in the face of deceit and to remain vigilant against the encroachment of autocratic tendencies.
Medium: Lithography on Cotton Paper
Dimensions: 11″ x 9.5″
Year Completed: 2023
Edition Size: 21
Editions Available for Sale: 17
