Cowboy / 'Richard Prince' / Sam Abell / Appropriation
Cowboy / 'Richard Prince' / Sam Abell / Appropriation
Initially my fascination was, like with most people, the romantic Americana that is associated with these images. This classic vintage image dating from the mid 80's has so many layers going on. When I look at it I think of Richard Prince for taking this image from Sam Abell (the original photographer) appropriating the image and calling it his own and elevating it to the strata of 'art'. Sam Abell was commissioned to photograph this series for Marlboro and created an iconic campaign that is so familiar to us, yet the art world would never consider his photographs art! The model (David Mclean) died of lung cancer as well as another model that served on this campaign. More than enough to think about--and enough to make this distinctly American. This piece comes un-framed , but shows what a stunning piece you can have with a little effort. I have one of my own and so should you. Measures 35.5" x 75.5" (sold unframed)