Why the Name Art Goes to War?
The name Art Goes to War reflects Laurence Kirwan's interest in the striking visual design of military uniforms and objects. Badges, buttons, ribbons and headwear become subjects for paintings that connect personal memory with historical material culture.
Obviously, the name of the website “ART GOES TO WAR” is somewhat self-explanatory. It is about the aesthetics and timeless beauty of the insignia and uniforms that soldiers wear when they serve whether that be on the parade ground, in the mess or on the battlefield. Each period, scenario and each “theatre” of War has its own specific colors and wardrobe. The apex of this design pyramid is the actual “colors” of the Regiment and ultimately the Flag of country they are fighting for. Everything, down to the colored thread on the buttons, is specified in orders issued by the armed services. In the US, when a soldier dies, his “Gold Star” family is given a folded “Stars and Stripes” as the ultimate honor bestowed from their grateful country.
“Art Goes to War” or AGW for short, is also meant to be intentionally ambiguous, implying not only the literal aesthetics of the paraphernalia and accoutrements of War but also implying rebellious and in-your-face attitude to the entire theme but also allowing other images of a non-military character to be included on the AGW web site such as the iconic "Brasso" wadding cans, which incidentally was the standard polishing material for all the brass uniform buttons and badges, and the insouciant Morton Salt Girl, tripping home under her giant Umbrella. Even portraits are given the same rebellious attitude and tone.
This is the distinctive Glangarry Garrison or Side Cap worn by the Scottish regiments. It has a red pom-pom or toorie on the top. The Cap badge is set against a black brocade with black ribbons flying from the back. There is often a hackle or feathers which are positioned behind and above the cap badge. The tartan band is of red white and blue-black squares characteristic of the Royal Scottish Regiments. This is an unusual example of a parade cap.
Medal ribbons and medals are the ultimate eye-catcher and are worn on the left chest, like a Roman Salute. Here are a selection of some of the most iconic ribbons of World War Two. This medal ribbon image is available on the Shopify Store as are photographs of the Glengarry Side-Cap. The Embroidered Red Visor Cap with the "ART GOES TO WAR" slogan on the front, can be ordered in different styles and colors also through the Store.
Explore About Laurence Kirwan for related artwork and background.
Comments (0)