The Sleep of Reason, Checks & Balances, vintage paper collage on 1930’s bank check, 7.5″ x 4″, 2018
September 27, 2019
The Sleep of Reason is named after Francisco de Goya’s 1799 etching The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters, one of 80 etchings that make up Los Caprichos (the whims) criticizing Spanish society. The piece has long been a favorite of mine for its inherent dream-like qualities and cleverness. I’ve subtracted the figure and made use of the bats, which I don’t find at all monster-like, but rather cute, rowdy and expressive. It’s interesting to see how artists employ creatures to create allegory and symbolism. I believe reason in our society is sleeping now and as a result there are many monsters present.
The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters, Francisco José de Goya, Google Art Project