ABOUT

I painted this in response to the rise in far-right nationalism throughout the UK. I wanted to explore the concept behind the fundamentalist Christian narrative that is often promoted on marches by groups such as Raise The Colours, Britain First etc and how this is often 'normalised' under the false flags of patriotism or caring for communities etc. The father and son are embarking upon a malevolent pilgrimage in a desolate street in a deprived area - like many in my native West Midlands. The lamb/sheep is a reference to the pagan and Christian symbolism associated with these animals, but also references the term 'Sheeple' which was often applied to people who chose to wear masks during the Covid pandemic. While working on this painting, real-life events took an even uglier turn, with riots taking place in many cities, hence the burning building this pair are walking away from. The tatty, torn flag is now a familiar sight in many towns and cities, but also serves as a visual metaphor for where this ideology could eventually lead us....