1997By Farah

Ken Keeley is one of the most notable Photorealist artists of all time. Photorealism evolved from Pop Art in the 1960s and immediately received criticism for its reliance on photographs. The movement emerged as a response to the growing popularity of photographic media and in opposition to Abstract Expressionism and Minimalist art movements. The painstaking detail of each canvas captures a moment in time that is in homage to the events that took place. The events that Keeley expresses, through his piece '97 News Stand, are on display at Baterbys Art Auction Gallery and up for auction at Baterbys upcoming November auction.

In Ken Keeley's piece he commemorates the life of Princess Diana and the events of 1997 through the portrayal of a news stand.

Keeley was particularly interested in studying news stands for their commentary on society and contemporary life.
The titles, covers, and variety of magazines reflect the values of 1997; in this case focusing on the deaths of Princess Diana and Mother Theresa.

Life and Death of a Princess

Princess Diana was internationally adored for her honesty, charisma, and involvement in numerous charities. Although the ceremony was widely publicized and considered a "fairytale wedding," her marriage was far from perfect. Her husband's callousness and his affair with Camilla Parker-Bowles created a toxic environment for Diana, who was a sensitive and passionate woman. The events of her life charged the sympathy of the public who fell in love with her, not only due to her strengths but also her imperfections.

The news of her death sent a shockwave to people abroad who would mourn her death and celebrate her life for many months following. In the same week the world lost another heroine, Mother Theresa, a humanitarian known for her service to the poor and helpless throughout India and other countries.

An Artist's Portrayal

'97 News Stand by Ken Keeley is a reflection of human nature. We have a willingness to feel pain and empathy without sacrificing our conviction of hope for a brighter future. Instead of forever mourning death, we have the ability to find happiness by instead focusing on the memories of life. This work is a commemoration of human nature's sense of value.

Whether we grab a candy bar, read the daily comic, or learn from a role model, the common goal is the same.
Happiness is a value that we will forever strive to possess, even if we have to fight tragedy in the midst.

It is hard to imagine a news stand portrayed by anyone other than a Photorealist. The details are what makes the news stand unique and important. A photograph will not suffice; it cannot do it justice. The fact that the artist spent hours upon hours to recreate this moment in time makes it important and meaningful for someone whose life has been forever affected by the events of 1997.