For our meltdown project we wanted to feature a “celebrity-meltdown”, and Michael Jackson was the first name that came to mind. To express the breakdown of his life, we decided to place him in a context that could be easily recognizable and we immediately decided on the Neverland Ranch for our main setting. The theme of innocence lost was implemented through the inclusion of a garden-like atmosphere. The playful scene with its bright colors represents the Garden of Eden which has long been recognized as a symbol of innocence. Therefore, it is fitting that the now corrupt Michael Jackson was placed in such a scene.
Inspiration for this piece was derived from the Alice in Wonderland movie. The bright, surreal colors in this film are clearly emulated within our composition. While the juxtaposition of the textured hand against the backdrop provides a point of focus within the piece, it is the colors that create the most tension and engagement for the viewer. Overall, I think our project was successful; it was enjoyable to work as a group and to mesh our individual styles into one piece.