Radio Lady: What is your immediate reaction to this Barack Obama illustration?

[Radio_Lady]

It appeared on the cover of our largest alternative weekly paper, Willamette Week, on 4/30/2008, here in Portland, Oregon.

The artist is Lukas Ketner (2008).

www.wweek.com

Jot down your thoughts and reply as fully as you can. Thank you for your participation.

Radio Lady in Oregon

[Occam Bandage]

1. I wish I could have rose-erections explode from my sun-bright penis, too.

[Radio_Lady]

7. Here's Lukas Ketner's website with other illustrations, including one for "The Dark Knight"...

appropriately enough.



The movie opened this weekend with an explosion of interest followed by an infusion of CASH!

$155 million or more expected which is HUGE.

http://lukasketner.blogspot.com/

[Zuiderelle]

212. I'm lost. What do you mean by "appropriately enough"

Just a question.

[Radio_Lady]

214. That Batman illustration was done way in advance of the new movie release.

When I found it and posted it above, I thought the Batman illustration "appropriate enough" for the week after the release of the movie. I like the Batman illustration. Just an answer.

I have no idea why you put this post here, but decided to respond. However, if this brings a torrent of further questions about sensitive issues left over from yesterday, I will not go further with this. I have received a warning about my status here. This is my thread and no one else has seen fit to question my motives in posting it.

Sincerely,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

PS. I've PMed everyone I could about Tuesday's locked thread in order to get back on an even keel. If you have further responses to my posts, and they are sensitive, I will not no longer respond via open forum. I welcome a discussion by PM. Thanks for listening.

[Zuiderelle]

216. Not sure why you don't know why I "put this post here."

I was curious as to what you meant by "appropriately enough" in relation to a depiction of the "Dark Knight" in relation to your OP's depiction of Obama. I'm still pretty confused by your answer.

And more confused by the rest of your answer.

Here's the post I'm responding to here in case you edit it after reading this, as it's your habit often to edit your posts once you get a response you don't like.

Radio_Lady
Wed Jul-23-08 03:51 PM
Response to Reply #212
214. That Batman illustration was done way in advance of the new movie release.

When I found it and posted it above, I thought the Batman illustration "appropriate enough" for the week after the release of the movie. I like the Batman illustration. Just an answer.

I have no idea why you put this post here, but decided to respond. However, if this brings a torrent of further questions about sensitive issues left over from yesterday, I will not go further with this. I have received a warning about my status here. This is my thread and no one else has seen fit to question my motives in posting it.

Sincerely,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

PS. I've PMed everyone I could about Tuesday's locked thread in order to get back on an even keel. If you have further responses to my posts, and they are sensitive, I will not no longer respond via open forum. I welcome a discussion by PM. Thanks for listening.

No need to reference other threads in here... All of your threads stand well enough on their own. (As for no one questioning your motives, I think you need to reread some of the responses below.)

[Radio_Lady]

223. You are right. You seem lost. Thanks for posting.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=6520030&mesg_id=6529668

[Faygo Kid]

8. DUzy. (Of course, that happens to me all the time).

Nicely done.

[Cha]

23. Oh you're

funny..thanks for bringing some humor here.:D

[hisownpetard]

68. You could, if you tried.

[DangerousRhythm]

147. HAHA, exactly what I was thinking...

Why are there flowers exploding from his crotch? How very Harlequin Romance of them.

[Radio_Lady]

149. FYI, the illustrator is in Portland, OR -- we are the Rose City --

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[DangerousRhythm]

187. Yeah, it makes sense.

Still, the image is very Harlequin Romance and very... flowery. I gather that's what the illustrator was going for though, in which case... well done! :)

P.S. - How do you find Portland to be as a place to live? I've been considering Oregon for a while now, as a potential place to move. It seems like a very progressive place to be, but I just wonder about jobs and the cost of living.

[Radio_Lady]

191. We love it here. Husband was working as a software analyst on the Y2K situation.

A contracting company paid for the move.

We followed our daughter and son-in-law here. They are employed. They live in the same town with their two kids, born here in different centuries! 1998 and 2000.

We retired in 2001 because the jobs dried up.

Do visit here in the summer -- very dry and usually not too warm. September was the month that lured us here...

Winters are mild, but there is a certain bleakness and moisture that some people find objectionable.

Truth is that Boston (where we used to live) and Portland have the same amount of precipitation! 37 inches a year. The difference is that some of it falls as snow in Boston! Lotsa snow! What you don't read is: out of every three days, two days are clear and sunny in Boston; in Portland, out of three days, only one day will be clear. The clouds do break every now and then, so it isn't overcast all day.

However, I must report that the first winter I was here had 44 days straight with misty rain... Many people are disturbed by this, but I'm not. There was only one day I could not get to work because of ice. Eveything shuts down here if there is even a couple inches of snow.

PM me with any questions. Also, there's a ton of information on the Internet. POVA can help -- Portland Oregon Visitors Association.

www.pova.org

[DangerousRhythm]

202. Bleakness, you say?

I like bleak and I love clouds and rain as long as it's not the flooding kind... so this sounds quite appealing to me. :D

Thank you for the reply! I'll be sure to get back to you with any questions I can't find answers to easily. I am filing this information away in my mental file cabinet. ;)

[Radio_Lady]

205. Glad to help. Consider me your informative helper right here in western Oregon.

You might consider going to our largest newspaper site and looking around. I wish it were easier to navigate, mind you.

www.oregonlive.com

This is the home of the Portland Oregonian, our morning daily newspaper.

I wonder if the guy who put up the pictures is still doing it. Yes, he is.

Go to: www.portlandbridges.com

For jobs, there is www.jobdango.com

Monster.com lists for this area, at least they did some years ago. We were forced into retirement in August 2001, when egghead.com went out of business in Vancouver, Washington. Their Menlo Park headquarters went into a meltdown and took my husband's job out from under him. Not a pretty sight, but I hear things have improved. I've drifted into volunteering but have had to make some recent changes after almost eight years.

We are in a real estate bind here... lots of people trying to sell, but a lot of lookers, not buyers.

Would you be renting? I heard the first radio ads on KPOJ (Air America radio link) for a realtor dealing in foreclosures. It's pretty sad.

Keep in touch. PM me if you want something specific.

Thanks and good night.

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

[DangerousRhythm]

207. Awesome!

I bookmarked all of those, thanks! I'd probably be renting, but if people are that anxious to sell their homes... I guess it would depend on what kind of deals I could find. It's all just a nice escape plan in my head at this point, nothing solid. :D

[Bicoastal]

2. My first reaction?

"Ewwww...."

[Radio_Lady]

9. Tell me why you have that reaction.

[hisownpetard]

69. Are you dyslexic, or did you *mean* to write "reaction"?

:hi:

[Radio_Lady]

80. Sorry, I'm not following your train of thought...

"Ewww" is a reaction of disgust. Is that what you meant?

Let's not overanalyze this. No, I am not dyslexic.

Thanks.

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

[hisownpetard]

96. RL - I never said "Ewww"! I was trying to make a funny about the word 'reaction' as opposed to

another word that sounds like it. (I know you're not dyslexic)!

As Emily Litella used to say, "Never mind!"


:hi:

[Radio_Lady]

104. I apologize, HOP. I'm trying to write two movie reviews and work on this thread as well.

Bicoastal said "Ewwww..." not YOU! I hate it when that happens!

Are we speaking about... ahem... an erection reaction?

OK. "Get out of the gutter... and come down to the SEWER with me!"

Thanks... I guess it would have been funnier if I were there reading it over your shoulder. Something is LOST IN TRANSLATION.

:loveya:

RL in OR

OT: Here's what I did with my spare time Friday and Saturday night:

http://www.kgw.com/lifestyle/stories/kgw_071808_lifestyle_batman_review.6aa5ebee.html

[hisownpetard]

129. Yes, you got it! I was too obtuse, but that was what I was thinking.

Good movie review. Boy, you sure do manage to keep busy, don't you?
But that's good - it's what keeps us young.

[Radio_Lady]

130. Thanks for the complements. You are very kind.

My computer is busy and my bank account is not. There are dozens of movie reviewers out of work right now. It's pretty tough to be on a fixed income.

http://journals.democraticunderground.com/Radio_Lady/242

[NashVegas]

3. Harlequin Cover

[mrs_p]

48. my thoughts exactly

potential backcover:

detective clarissa daniels wasn't looking for love on the gritty metropolis streets where she grew up. she worked her way up from patrol and no one was going to stand in her way of success. many men had fallen for her renown beauty and clever wit, but none was able to touch her heart....

the lone rider was just passing through and had no intention to stay in the city that had caused such heartbreak years before. mr. drake black had seen his share of destruction and pain. his days were spent running from his past while his nights brought back all the memories he would rather forget...

perhaps the meeting of rissy and drake would be the catalyst needed to heal them both. find out in rosewater...

[Radio_Lady]

50. LOL! Do you do this for a living?

Because you're good!

Thanks for posting! RL in OR

[mrs_p]

100. heehee

thanks, but no... just a scientist who has a VERY guilty pleasure reading some not-so-scientific literature. by the way, i love willamette valley - i'm a pacific northwest girl myself!

:hi:

[Radio_Lady]

105. PNW girl? I was dragged here kicking and screaming by my daughter, son-in-law, and

husband, who all hated the snows of New England. My husband, born in Brockton, Mass., called winter "the season of death"!
When I said that snow was pretty, he'd glare at me and scream, "GO SHOVEL THE PRETTY!"

I was born in Pittsburgh, Penna. but Mommy and Daddy brought me to Miami Beach, Florida when I was three years old. My blood never thinned (an erroneous claim at best) and I started sweating whenever the thermometer got above 70 degrees F. Really! I was a sweaty little kid, and now I'm a sweaty 69-year-old lady.

Portland is a compromise climate -- not too hot in summer, and not too cold in winter -- but beautiful! After more than fifty years on the East Coast, I did feel frightfully homesick when we moved here in 1998, and hit the town during one of the hottest summers in PDX history. But I've adjusted very well, and we retired here. My husband and I get away to warmer placed during the cool winters, and I'm usually just as glad to get back here to be with my two grandchildren.

A scientist! How interesting. I worked briefly for a company called Diversified Biotech in Boston, Massachusetts. (See if they're still around at www.diversifiedbiotech.com )

They sold interesting laboratory items to researchers all over the world. I did their marketing and PR. I've always had a healthy interest in biology and chemistry. Earlier, one of my jobs for about a decade was with Clairol, the haircoloring company, as a technical representative. At the time, the company was part of Bristol Myers-Squibb.

[mrs_p]

108. well, how about a pnw

girl at heart? i'm glad you find it beautiful and have adjusted to the clime. my hubby and i grew up in the seattle area, but are now living in colorado for me to attend grad school (i'm focusing on the genetics and molecular bio of influenza virus). as for snow, you are always welcome to come to my house here in colo to shove the pretty! ;-) actually, the snow i don't mind - it's not the kind we get back home that chills to the bone - it's the heat that gets me. if only we could get a nice breeze off the water (sigh). enjoy some extra saltwater air for me!!!

[Radio_Lady]

131. mrs_p, we're headed to Breckenridge, Colorado next month...

I've only been through the Stapleton Airport in Denver. That's it.

We're going to the Valdoro Resort at 9600 ft. in mid-August, but we will be back before the Democratic Convention begins.

I love the mountains, but always get a case of "the bends" and it takes me about a day to get used to the altitude.

I used to work for a small company that sells biological supplies. It is at www.diversifiedbiotech.com . I just look and they're still in business after all these years, and in the same location, too.

My family had members who became seriously ill after the influenza epidemic of 1918 (I hope that date is right).

Welcome to the DU -- glad to meet you.

Cordially,

Radio Lady in OR

[Barack_America]

210. Genius.

:thumbsup:

[Buck Rabbit]

124. Ding Ding Ding!!! A winner. See this from the artists blog:

"Portland is in love with Barack Obama, all harlequin romance style."

[Radio_Lady]

125. Exactly. We had a very big turnout for the May 18th rally, which came just a couple of

weeks after the WW printed their story.

Please see this post to explain MY personal choice:

http://journals.democraticunderground.com/Radio_Lady/238

Thank you, and good night.

[NashVegas]

172. "... And I'd Like to Thank My Mom ..."

For having so many of them laying about.

[Faygo Kid]

4. Shaft. John Shaft.

I thought the '70s were over.

[terrya]

13. I was going to say Superfly.

To be tactful...that illustration is less than dignified. Actually, it's pretty offensive.

[Radio_Lady]

21. What makes it offensive?

Is it as offensive as the illustration of Barack and Michelle Obama in the New Yorker magazine? If you don't know what I'm talking about, please let me know.

[terrya]

32. It trivializes him.

Perhaps offensive may have been the wrong word. But what's with the near open shirt? It DOES look like he's on the cover of one of those Harlequin Romances. I'm not sure that's the kind of image the Obama campaign wants.

[Radio_Lady]

127. Apparently, a couple of DUers were in touch with the artist -- and found that is

exactly what he was trying to achieve.

Thanks for your post.

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

[Faygo Kid]

25. It's ridiculous. But Isaac Hayes and Curtis Mayfield? Sublime.

I know, Isaac Hayes is a Scientologist all the way. But his music was great.

As for Curtis Mayfield, the Superfly album is one of my all time top 10. I'll never forget listening to it in a tavern in Amsterdam on reel-to-reel, all the way through, in 1973. I was transported.

Still am. One of the best.

[cbc5g]

5. Reminds me of the messiah picture..lol

[blondie58]

208. yep, that is it exactly

but he looks like a cult leader. I don't care for this picture.

[Ichingcarpenter]

6. Bad Junk Art..... reminds me of a velvet painting.

The kind you find at swap meets.

It doesn't offend me, its just bad art.

[TomInTib]

24. It's just plain Bad. Ain't no Art, nowhere around this thing.

The editor's taste is all in his mouth.

Or maybe he owed the illustrator a favor (or ten).

I am surrounded by real Art.

www.OpiaHome.com

and that hurt my eyes just to look at it.

[Radio_Lady]

26. Hi Tom -- That is a beautiful site, to be sure. I also liked the music.

Thanks for posting.

[TomInTib]

30. Thanks, Radio_Lady.

Try going back sometime, and click on "What's New?".

You'll get an idea of how I spend my time (during the day, anyway).

And this is where I spend it (I am the guy in the fedora who keeps showing up).

http://picasaweb.google.com/robertjamesusa/TiburonArtFestival02

[Radio_Lady]

35. What kind of an instrument is that?

I know that Ravi Shankar plays the sitar, but that is some other stringed instrument.

I've been fascinated by Far Eastern art for a long time. We have many showy trinkets around the house and although nothing here is valuable, at least we have some attractive "dustables" as momentoes of our trips.

Watching the whole slide show...

looking for a fedora!

Thanks.

RL in OR

[TomInTib]

45. The large-bodied instrument is a Pipa

Verrrrry rare

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pipa

The bowed instrument is an Erhu.

http://www.paulnoll.com/China/Music/mus-erhu.html


If you saw the Han Man portrait, he is playing an Erhu. I sold the original of that painting to a pretty intoxicated Keith Richard (Rolling Stones). "Say, that bloke looks just like me."

[Radio_Lady]

49. TomInTib, I'm just curious about this. Take a look at this site and tell me what you think.

I have one poster that this artist has done -- framed, in my bedroom.

When he sends me a yearly postcard, I slide that into a frame. No big budget art here, but no crap, either, at least we think so. I have a Marc Chagall signed lithograph, a couple of finds from estate sales, and other assorted trinkets from travel.

Please enter:

http://www.yurozart.com/

[TomInTib]

60. I like it, and I also like the intro music.

Because I, too, play the blues.

But I do like that art, R_L.

Thanks for sending the link, I will enjoy checking it out in depth over a few glasses of wine later this evening (after our Full Moon hike has fallen to the weather, again).

[Radio_Lady]

78. Stygian sent me a video made by the artist in which he explains how he came to America.

Perhaps it's on their site somewhere -- he has a very touching backstory. He's in California, too.

I just find his simple geometric shapes and his bright colors extremely appealing. I also love pomegranates -- although beware!... because their juice stains all light colored clothing. For some reason, I have been attracted all my life to the work of Joan Miro, Pablo Picasso, Paul Klee, Marc Chagall, and also the artists of the Cubist movement whose names escape me right now.

Married in 1973 to husband Audio Al has combined with his life-long love of the Impressionists, but recently he has become a devotee of digital photography. He has turned out some sensational shots, and has the patience to go out in a foreign location and bring back some gorgeous work. Most of the time, I don't accompany him because I find it totally boring to edit in the camera and then fiddle and fiddle with an individual picture.

My 84 year old aunt from San Rafael -- who loves things artistic and has a treasure trove of wall hangings in her small condominium. She joins us on July 30th for a visit here in Portland.

I always remember your sweet story told upon the death of Tom Snyder... and the kind conversations we have had on a number of topics.

Cordially,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball in Oregon

[MadMaddie]

77. TomInTib what a handsome fellow you are!!

[TomInTib]

181. Why, thank you, ma'am.

I have almost a year's more hair growth now, though.

Crazy ex-Girlfriend liked me to keep it short.

Tom

[Spider Jerusalem]

84. Barack Elvis Jesus on black velvet.

THAT'S what that looks like.

It's horrible.

[AspenRose]

183. You read my mind!

!

[Ichingcarpenter]

102. Tom ... What do you think of these shelves I made from Junk Lumber?

They were made 2X6 Framing Lumber, black spray paint and brass laminate I got from an old carpenter job?
I'm not good at promoting my work cause I'm too critical of it. Anyway, it seems
that it is in the same theme of your store.

[Demi_Babe]

10. weak image of Obama

[Radio_Lady]

11. What makes it weak?

[Kahuna]

63. For one thing the head isn't positioned properly on the neck. The nose is all wrong...

And Obama only wishes he had pecs like those.

[vaberella]

12. Three things come to mind. First two thoughts, Harlequin romance/The WatchTower

It's something you'd see on Harlequin about some crazy love in the mountains. Like when Fabio was on the cover of Zebra novels. But now it's with the Black Prince coming to rescue me from boredom and bring to lascivious satisfaction.

The new coming Messiah. He wears white, has a gold belt with a "B" on it so you don't forget the name. He's walking on water or through water and the blessing of God is shining down upon him with a kick ass unicorn just for effect. Then they added the city in the background to modernize; ala Jehovah's Witness' THE WATCHTOWER's new cover.


The third thing was that this looks like an artistic cover for a new rap album where Obama's new album entitled simply "O" has been dropped and depicts him rising from the sea ala Venus. Which leads to my third.



Basically it fits into every damn stereotype on Obama I've seen or heard. It's not cute and I don't like it in other words. But that could have been the intention.

[givemebackmycountry]

14. Immediate reaction?

I freaking hate it.
He looks like a young Chris Webber.

[supernova]

15. Really wish people wouldn't deify our politicians

I understand the artist's intent. (I think :P ) to show him as attractive and, in a sense mythic.

While he does have some very positive qualities, he is just a human being after all. I'm just afraid that with all the hagiography going on, even if he does well, people are still going to feel let down because he's not.. I dunno... Moses leading everybody to the promised land?

edit: We didn't like it when the extreme right did it to Reagan and to * -- for many of us that worship was a tip off that something wasn't quite right with the other side --, so I don't think we should be indulging in it with our bunch either.

[Buck Rabbit]

16. My first thought was, hey thats Portland.

Second thought was ....... artist must have scored some really good BC Bud.

[Radio_Lady]

27. Yes, we are the Rose City and that is a Portland bridge in the background.

[ErinBerin84]

17. looks like he could give Fabio some competition in the I Can't Believe It's not Butter commercials

[ebayfool]

41. My 1st reaction as well!

It's not terribly ... dignified? respectful? I dunno the term I'm looking for here, but I don't like it. At all.

Kinda like it demeans/belittles the man & the position he's running for - I'd hate it on behalf of any poilitician I was backing, male or female.

Now if the 'artist' wants to sketch up a wispy-long-grey-locks-and-shiny-pate-wafting/shining-in-the-gentle-breezes-beaming-up-at-the-moon-in-a-ripped-pirate-shirt-with-padded-codpiece-with-withered-dead-weeds-exploding-from-the-crotch-to-go-with-his-ever-present-padded-shoulders ... I'd like to see that one! :evilgrin:

btw - the Fabio thing I never got ... he's sooo not hawt!

[elocs]

18. It has a cultish look to it and I don't think it is that good of a likeness.

What on earth is he supposed to be wearing and what is that in his right hand?

[Radio_Lady]

28. B = Barack belt buckle? I have the actual cover. The object is obscured by the headline:

"For the Love of Politics."

Thanks for your post.

RL in OR

[grantcart]

19. Well he isn't the Christ because he can't walk on water - but he can convince the horses to.

That's good enough for me.

[mia]

20. It cheapens Obama.

What's with the open shirt and unicorn?
I like the way that the artist painted the figure and the fabric.

[Clovis Sangrail]

22. blech

looks like something from a romance novel

[CakeGrrl]

29. It looks more like Martin Lawrence than Barack Obama

and it comes off as an Obama cynic/hater's mischaracterization of him as the "Messiah", wherever his detractors came up with that label.

A fanciful, fictional unicorn prancing in the background while roses fly out of the water and sparkling sweat runs down his skin? That's not an honest portrayal by someone who admires or respects what Obama has accomplished.

[Radio_Lady]

36. Ouch!

[CakeGrrl]

72. If this is the artist's positive, sincere vision of Obama, he's entitled

to his vision and good for him for getting it published; but personally, it hits all the wrong imagery notes for me.

As an Obama supporter, I roll my eyes at the hyperbolic, sarcastic anti-Obama labels like "Obamessiah" and "The Anointed One", never mind the accusations of 'cultists' and 'kool-aid drinkers'. When I look at that photo, it embodies those overblown labels.

[Radio_Lady]

81. OKey, dough-key!

Thanks for your post.

SeeU@theDU

[Radio_Lady]

92. For more on the work of this artist, please go to this link:

http://lukasketner.blogspot.com/2008/06/some-recent-weekly-covers.html

Have a wonderful week, everybody!

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

OT: Here's the KGW.com link to my review of "The Dark Knight" (Batman) which opened wide on Friday, July 18, 2008

http://www.kgw.com/lifestyle/stories/kgw_071808_lifestyle_batman_review.6aa5ebee.html

--
Ellen Kimball is a TV and radio pioneer. She was first selected as a co-host of a local, live children's television show at WTVJ, Ch. 4 in Miami, Florida, during her freshman year in college. She has been working in broadcasting for more than three decades. Ellen is also one of the first women in the U.S. to host her own daily radio call-in talk shows at AM stations in both Miami and Boston. She and her husband moved to Oregon in 1998. They now make their home in Beaverton. Ellen contributes her reviews on films, books, and theater to KGW.com and also on the Democratic Underground website. You can read her complete web journal here: www.journals.democraticunderground.com/Radio_Lady

[Kahuna]

64. Riiiight!!

:rofl:

[Olney Blue]

31. Obama is a serious, brilliant lawyer/politician. This image makes him look

like a lounge singer. Ugh.

[Radio_Lady]

51. Thanks for your post.

[PM7nj]

33. My reaction:

:eyes: :eyes: :eyes: :eyes: :eyes:

[Radio_Lady]

59. Ten eyes have it. Don't know what you mean... but that's OK.

[NancyG]

34. It creeps me out because

it seems to bring out his sexuality in a way that could scare Middle America's fears of black men. The look on his face makes him look driven, and not in a good way.

I don't want those in the middle whose vote he needs to think of sex; I want them to think of his competence. I feel this picture does a disservice to his life's work.

[Duder]

37. "I felt this thrill going up my leg..."

Nah, actually I agree with Andrew Sullivan's take of it back in May, that it feeds the cult meme of some.

[TheDonkey]

40. lol, great throwback quote. I think it reminds me of extreme fantasy and

euphoria over Obama. Like he is walking on water with a white stallion behind him, roses flowing from his nether regions. It's over the top "thrills".

[undeterred]

38. Where the hell are his pants?

Edit: Is he supposed to be "The Ladies Man"?

[Radio_Lady]

192. His pants? Wait a minute. I'll look. They must be around here somewhere!

:rofl:

:blush:

[IndyOp]

39. It's for women who read TOO MANY romance novels & like "sexy Elvis in white jacket era" pics

http://o.aolcdn.com/dims/PGMC/1/294/-/90/

[undeterred]

42. Now, THAT is Sexy.

[Radio_Lady]

52. Have you ever compared Elvis with the statue of David by Michelangelo?

We had that serious discussion when we were in Florence, Italy.

[KittyWampus]

43. The Water is our Collective Unconsious, the Horse is Change, the Roses are Desires Manifesting,

the Bridge is Collective Movement.

Obama is helping Humanity to progress from one state towards another.

[crankychatter]

46. you're alright... I don't think this op merits your sincerity... but you are ALLright NT

[Buck Rabbit]

121. The water is the Willamette River, the bridge is the Hawthorne,

the horse gets in your way and splashes you while kayaking, but the Ross Island Salmon Eating Water Trotter is an endangered species like sea lions so we can't touch it.

[Radio_Lady]

123. Very imaginative! Go to the head of the class!

[locker13]

44. FYI

Im not endorsing this site cuz its an anti obama site at the end of the day, but its pretty interesting and they post pictures like this about obama

http://obamamessiah.blogspot.com/

[Radio_Lady]

58. Anti-Obama at the end of the day? It's still early in the campaign... who is the audience for that

site?

Thanks for posting,............I think.

[locker13]

94. the site

the point of the site is to show that people are being caught up in some kind of euphoria over obama and it post statements from Obama supporters and pictures that can be interpreted as over the top and devoid of logic.

Personally I think the site is hilarious. But once you start reading the site its obvious that the webmaster is anti Obama.

[Quixote1818]

47. Shouldn't Miley Cyrus be next to him in this? Or perhaps Sean Cassidy?

It's a beautiful picture that seems to trivialize Obama into a teen idol or cultist, rock star image.

It's a beautiful image though! Looks like heaven! Great colors.

[Radio_Lady]

61. You said, "It's a beautiful image though! Looks like heaven! Great colors."

Miley Cyrus prefers that popular three-boy band Can't remember their name at the moment. Actually, I loved the Hannah Montana 3-D movie she did with her father!

But then I'm a performer and used to entertainers in this mode, not politicians.

[scarletwoman]

53. Utterly ridiculous and nausea inducing. And really bad art besides.

The composition, the colors, the elements of the painting (horse, roses, bridge, cityscape, etc.) all horribly amateurish and unaesthetic. The figure of Obama is just insulting -- I mean, what the hell is with the belt buckle in his hand, is he about to drop trou? Not to mention, his arms are not in proportion to each other.

This is something I'd expect from 8th grade girl with a bad crush -- something that should NEVER see the light of day. And frankly, sexualizing a political candidate like this picture does is just plain icky.

Just bad, bad, bad, all around bad, really awfully awful bad bad. No redeeming value whatsoever.

sw

[Radio_Lady]

82. Thanks, sw. Appreciate your point of view completely.

[1Hippiechick]

54. Really, really bad idea - a lot of Biblical imagery - we're already accused of treating him like the

Messiah, or the second coming of the Messiah.

IMO, this picture represents The Black Messiah, possibly the second coming.

The rose represents the Rose of Sharon - a term reserved for Jesus in the Bible

The bridge represents that the only way that one "reaches" God is through Jesus - the bridge

The white horse. White is always a symbol of purity and righteousness. The rider goes forth with a bow, a symbol of conquest. (Possibly the "B" reference in the hand, but more likely the "B" representing the Bible)
This rider went out conquering and to conquer, which is said of Christ in John 16:3, Revelation 3:21 and Revelation 5:5.

There is only one other white horse singled out in Revelation, and it is the one upon which Jesus rides, 19:11. This rider and horse represent the going forth of the gospel.

Free speech is free speech, and only Christians or other people versed in the Bible would pick up the symbolism in this piece, is my guess.

[Radio_Lady]

88. Portland symbols abound here... we're living in the Rose City, the bridge is across the Willamette

River here. "B" is for Barack, I'll bet. Just a couple of weeks later (May 18th), Obama lured 72,000 people to Tom McCall waterfront park.

http://lukasketner.blogspot.com/

[1Hippiechick]

106. And I think the artist is having fun with ambiguity...how do you explain the white horse? n/t

[Radio_Lady]

118. I don't understand the white horse either.

[World Citizen]

55. beyond the chintz & glitz you mean?

The stance is all wrong. The forward jutting chin conveys belligerence and arrogance and maybe intended intimidation. I've never seen him convey that. As someone said...Chris Weber... getting ready to defend against an inbounds pass.

[salguine]

56. There's even a unicorn in it! I want this on the side of my van.

[mystieus]

66. LOL

[Mz Pip]

57. That pony in the background

reminds me of the JibJab video.

Sorry, but I really don't like it. It's cheesy on the verge of kitch. Nevermind, it IS kitch.

It's like the Pope on a Rope soaps and silly novelty dish towels that are sold to tourists.

[Radio_Lady]

89. No worries. I'm just gathering opinions here for a Sunday night.

:hi: :loveya:

Have a wonderful week MzPip!

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[TheDonkey]

62. Now THAT is satire

it plays off of reality and commonly held notions that Obama is "a new hope" and draws it out into absolute absurdity (even with a galloping white stallion in the background).

[me b zola]

188. I've read I don't know how many replies waiting for the obvious...

...this is SATIRE

The Willamatte Weekly is one of the hippest free rags that I've read. It is unfortunate that some Portlanders don't understand that this is satire. Of course like the New Yorker cover, the satire can offend, but it is still satire.

[quakerboy]

65. Really?

If it was presented outside of the format of GD: p, and without mention of Barack, I dont think I would have immediatly placed it as him. Not a terribly good likeness, in other words.

Other than that, I am drawn to remember the 70's. Fiction book cover, charitibly, or Romance book cover otherwise..

[boomerbust]

67. Shaft

John Shaft - Can ya dig it!!!

[roseBudd]

70. Tacky like a velvet Elvis, me not likey

[Liberal Veteran]

71. Harlequin Romance Novels Presents: Ebony Passion From the Depths.

That's just so bad.

[scarletwoman]

73. It's all, Magic Negro meets Mandingo.

All I can think of is the really old SNL "Mandingo" skit with Laraine Newman and Garrett Morris; "Take me, Mandingo!"

sw

[grannylib]

74. It's a poor likeness, for starters, and it's just cheesy and sends

the message of near-messianic status, and it's just...CHEESY!

[LWolf]

75. I am appalled.

Portraying him as a messiah figure is not only inaccurate, inappropriate and in bad taste. It is just flat out embarrassing. Humiliating for the party and the nation.

Unless, of course, you choose to interpret it as satire, which is quite possible with the fairytale unicorn behind him.

As satire, I find it precisely on target.

Which is it supposed to be?

[Radio_Lady]

86. LWolf, this is a local illustrator from Portland. You can look at his other work on his blog,

link above.

Here's one we might enjoy without all this discussion:

[LWolf]

103. I like that one.

I'll check out the blog. :)

[Youphemism]

76. For God's sake, get out of there! That water is polluted! /nt

[Lucky 13]

79. Bad "art" sold on the side of the road.

along with velvet paintings of tigers

[seasat]

83. He's promising us ponies!?!?!

Cool, my kid's will love a pony.

[RichardRay]

85. His white horse was spooked by thunderstorm and he fell off

into the Willamette and swam to shore. His cell phone (with the 'B' monogram on it) isn't going to do him much good as it's pretty wet, but luckily there was a florist truck passing by that slammed on its brakes to pick him up. It's too bad he lost that whole load of roses, but there are lots more of those in Portland.

(honestly, that's the first thing that came to mind)

[Radio_Lady]

91. Now, THAT'S what I call IMAGINATIVE1 You get an "A" for that post!

:rofl:

[polichick]

87. Glamorized pimp - not good.

[Radio_Lady]

90. I guess you could say that. And you did!

LOL -- especially since he isn't wearing pants (as someone astutely observed upthread).

Thanks for your comment.

RL in OR

[Peacetrain]

93. Honestly

One of the stupidest things I have ever seen..But if it rocks that artists' boat, well go for it I guess.

[foo_bar]

95. it was conceived as a joke, for what it's worth

I couldn’t figure out what this portrait was about, so I wrote the artist, Lukas Ketner, to find out. Here’s what he wrote:

Hello Jill,

The illustration in question is meant to be a humorous depiction of Portland’s (and perhaps much of Oregon’s) democratic population’s preference of Obama over Clinton. The picture makes the joke that Portland is in love with Obama, hence the harlequin romance novel treatment. Originally we were going to do a similar cover with Obama making out with Portlandia (a Lady Liberty-style statue that has oft represented our fair city in local cartoons), but we felt that it wouldn’t read as well outside of Portland.

http://www.writeslikeshetalks.com/2008/05/16/obama-editorial-portrait-artist-lukas-ketner-explains-wilmette-week-illustration/

The alt cover in question provides a little more tongue-in-cheek context ("We <3 Barack / Read who else we want you to fall for this election in WW's endorsement guide, p.16"):

[Ichingcarpenter]

109. THANKS FOR FINDING IT WAS AN ANTI OBAMA STORY

Good Work!

[foo_bar]

113. the article was an endorsement actually

The cover is self-mockery, like when we joke about having drunk the Kool-Aid as a way to defuse the charge by embracing it ironically. Hence:

With all due respect to those who think Clinton is the best surgeon for our times, we’re throwing our weight behind a different kind of healer, one who brings more than a smart set of policies, but rather a wholesale—yes, we’ll say it—change in approach. Don’t count us among the dewy-eyed who are infatuated with Obama and have conferred upon him celestial qualities: He is not divine. But do count us among those who believe he can inspire the best in each of us, begin to realign America’s international image, restore our civil liberties and expel the criminals and plunderers that have had an all-access pass to the White House since 2001.

http://wweek.com/editorial/3425/10871/

Why the OP saw fit to exhume a 10 week old alternative weekly in order to strip it of all context is another story.

[Ichingcarpenter]

114. Thanks now the context makes since

Vs. what do you think of it?

[foo_bar]

115. yeah, "what is your immediate reaction?" is asking for, well, a reactionary response

Take this image deprived of context:

What's the first thing that comes to mind? No thinking allowed, I want people's knee jerk freeper hindbrain reaction, because that's what productive debate is all about.

</explicit sarcasm tag given the last week or two>

[Ichingcarpenter]

116. I was gonna comment on that for weeks

but I'm glad you pointed it out too.

I was struck by that exact pose also, wondering how appropriate it was
these days. I wonder how old that the whole image is?
Looks like something from the 60s.

[Radio_Lady]

122. []

Good night and good luck,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

[Radio_Lady]

120. Foo_bar, I've had the WW cover on my desk for a couple of weeks. You've seen fit to place some evil

purpose to "exhume a 10 week old alternative weekly" etc. etc. Sorry I'm not more prompt -- I've been busy traveling and taking care of my two grandchildren and celebrating my 69th birthday on May 31.

I didn't bother to read the article as we now have a presumptive nominee and I posted my decision to vote for the party nominee even going back to February.

Tonight, in order to break the monotony of writing three movie reviews this weekend, this OP decided to link to the picture because of the brouhaha over the New Yorker image (negative)-- last week.

I kind of like the picture -- since I am a movie, book and theater reviewer and active in broadcasting for the past three decades. I gave it no context because I was just interested in people's opinions of the VISUAL on the DU.

Do you understand now? Stop coming to conclusions before you ask for the facts.

Cordially,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

[foo_bar]

139. you're telling me it was on your desk for a couple weeks, but you never got past the cover?

Forgive my skepticism.

I gave it no context because I was just interested in people's opinions of the VISUAL on the DU.

I pointed out that images don't take place in a contextual vacuum, even though you can get an "immediate reaction" from people by asking them not to consider anything beyond their initial impressions, which is a recipe for flamewars (IMO). Judging a book by its cover is the definition of prejudice, right?

I didn't bother to read the article

That doesn't really help the case for random art history debate on the GDP. If I have this straight, you discovered just now that your local paper endorsed Obama? You "liked the picture" from the heat of the primary three months ago, but never bothered to read into what it signified, like the caption right below it?

I kind of like the picture -- since I am a movie, book and theater reviewer and active in broadcasting for the past three decades.

If I'm understanding you correctly, you liked the image because you're active in broadcasting? Are you trying to say you like it because you're qualified to like it?

I also was a technical representative of Clairol's Personal Products Division (haircolor and hair care experience learned through the company) out of NYC and Stamford, CT. (1983-1992)

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x5595999#5597953 ("Radio_Lady" broadcasting a shoutout to Avon Lady)

So, you posted Hillary photos for what purpose? Did you take them? <...>

Usually it's SUPPORTERS who post photos -- unless I'm missing something really important.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x5402329 ("Radio_Lady", looking for bona fides (in all the wrong places))

Speaking of omitted context:

I am not a racist. <...>

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x6053150#6053378

We don't have many black people in Oregon...

("Radio_Lady", ibid.)

and if it were the other way around, and it was HRC, would you call it a BLACK cinderblock?

<...>

I was raised in the segregated South. Mentioning anything black could bring you grief, my friend.

<...>

GRAY cinderblocks = mixture of white and black = describes Obama exactly!

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x5659086#5659094 ("Radio_Lady" digging deeper)

You've got your nominee.

Let's see how much HE stands up under scrutiny.

Right now, I'm watching him backpedal on quite a few issues that I thought he was "progressive" on... Not so much today, IMHO.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x6456892#6457491 ("Radio_Lady" establishing bona fides merely two weeks ago)

Tonight, in order to break the monotony of writing three movie reviews this weekend <...> since I am a movie, book and theater reviewer

It's weird, I always pictured critics being more... critical of images and text (besides the "publicist's best friend" type of critic a la Joel Siegel @ Good Morning Amurka), like trying to discern their meaning before asking other people to do it for you, three month familial obligations notwithstanding.

[Radio_Lady]

142. Move over, Sherlock Holmes. You really got to the core issues... wow.

It is futile to fight you.

Your posts and PM make incorrect assumptions about me and my motives. "Fair use" says nothing about truncating an image for the sole purpose of derision.

I've learned there is no way one DUer can convince another of his/her motivations. You have a closed mind and you could care less about me or my posts. The attributions prove nothing. I'm a loyal Democrat and that remains the only test of the OP. As for the Jinnet painting, I took it out of my signature. Your Photoshop was a insult.

BTW Joel Siegel is dead. So are you.

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[foo_bar]

180. two thumbs down.

BTW Joel Siegel is dead. So are you.

Waaaay down.

Your posts and PM make incorrect assumptions about me and my motives.

The admins can tell who PM'd whom: you sent me an unsolicited PM saying you alerted this-or-that post, and I responded with a block and a request to knock off the private "correspondence" and quasilegal threats.

"Fair use" says nothing about truncating an image for the sole purpose of derision.

I don't recall deriding the image; I presented an excerpt from it, sans context, and left people to make their own judgment. Sound familiar?

For purposes of electronic display, however, portions of an image may be used to highlight certain details of the work for educational purposes as long as the full image is displayed with or linked to the portion

http://www.utsystem.edu/OGC/Intellectualproperty/imagguid.htm#5

In any event, the artist would need to sue you first for publishing the image without visible attribution or copyright/watermark, except your low-res version probably qualifies as a "thumbnail", and mine an enlargement of an excerpt of a thumbnail, but maybe you can overturn a decade of legal precedent with fatuous demands. But first, you'd have to notice that the picture in your OP is a copyrighted work, exacerbated by the omission of its original context:

Note:
All rights to work and content are reserved. No content may be copied or used without permission.

http://lukasketner.blogspot.com/

Your Photoshop was a insult.

No Photoshop involved, it's a digital magnification of a 50x120 area within your former 133x200 unsourced sig image/thumbnail.

I'm a loyal Democrat and that remains the only test of the OP

I thought the OP was testing Rorschach responses to a decontextualized image (I attempted to do likewise to illustrate a point, but to little avail.) I'm sure you're a "loyal Democrat" since you have to constantly remind people of it with a boilerplate disclaimer ("My official position is at..." *gag*).

Cordially,

Either "cordially" means the opposite of what it used to, or you aren't saying what you mean.

[Radio_Lady]

190. Over and out, foo_bar. n/t

[foo_bar]

195. roger wilco, "Radio_Lady"

It's half past the big hour here in AM radio land, which means it's time for your two minutes of hooray-for-the-status-quo filler segment. RL can you hear me from the fluffercopter?

[Radio_Lady]

196. --

Hey! Your radio patter simply pales next to the master, Larry King -- a former denizen from Brooklyn and former-friend-of-mine, of course!

What kind of work DO you do?

Let me guess... You're a diplomat! No, I don't think so.
A technical writer into dull stuff and you get kicks from this kind of verbal rambling? No?
Professor cruising the 'net in off hours? A retired doctor with dull scalpel and bad eyesight? Head comedian at one of the Manhattan clubs who never got to the next level?

How am I doing?

:rofl:

[foo_bar]

197. at least you're a good sport.

If I were your grandson you'd probably kvell.

[Radio_Lady]

199. We adore our grandson Solomon -- he's 7 years old and he's been to Hawaii five times.

Grandma and Grandpa spoil him a lot...

He's coming over Saturday and I'm going to give him a big hug.

His mother, my biological daughter, was born at the Infirmary on the East side of Manhattan in 1968.

My husband's mother is from Brooklyn. She was one sweet lady -- lived until age 88.

Thanks for your post. All is forgiven.

RL Ellen Kimball in Oregon

[JoFerret]

97. Hate it

that's my immediate reaction.

Makes Obama seem like a gormless swamp creature.

Infantalizes him. Diminishes him. Turns him in to a cartoon fantasy with no edge or reality or history or intellect.

[crankychatter]

98. If I didn't think that YOU think, that Obama supporters, think of him, in this airy fairy way

and if I didn't KNOW that you think we don't THINK... in contrast to whoever it is you think does think... perhaps, YOURSELF...

then this smarmy little thread you started, would be less offensive

edited to add:

" Smarmy:
1 : revealing or marked by a smug, ingratiating, or false earnestness <a tone of smarmy self-satisfaction — New Yorker>
2 : of low sleazy taste or quality <smarmy eroticism>"

[Radio_Lady]

126. I'm sorry, what did you say???

http://journals.democraticunderground.com/Radio_Lady/238

[Gidney N Cloyd]

99. Reminds me of the cover art on some 40 YO baptist kids 'training manuals' burned in my memory.

The artist should stick to painting houses.

[MH1]

101. That's supposed to be Obama?!?

I wouldn't have known that if you didn't tell me.

As for the artwork merits, it's not my cup of tea, but I can see how some might like it. As a picture of Obama, I think it's, um... not sure... unhelpful? at best, discomforting.

I'm not big into hero worship. I support Obama because I think he is the best choice of the choices we have. I also happen to think he's a pretty good choice, and a good man at heart. But pictures like that make me think people are putting too much on the guy. He isn't a feakin' god or savior or anything. He's just a politician, and will fail to meet expectations, hopes and dreams, sooner or later the same way all politicians do. That doesn't make him any less the best person for the job at this point in history. It just means he's human; but I think it would be best all around if everybody understood that out of the gate, rather than learning the hard way.

I hope that's helpful, that's the best I can explain my reaction.

[Tim4319]

107. Looks like the cover of some cheap romance novel.

[Overseas]

110. Sorry but Vomitocious. Echoes of Jib Jab trivialization too.

The Jib Jab folks' trivialization of Obama's hope message with Unicorns and such seems echoed here.
Ditto about the Harlequin cover.

[Ichingcarpenter]

112. It was an Obama (satire) art piece for a magazine

[Radio_Lady]

128. Iching, I can answer these people and planned to do it.

Cordially,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball in Oregon

Here is coverage of the May rally which might interest you.

http://journals.democraticunderground.com/Radio_Lady/242

[Overseas]

175. Satirizing Obama as Rock Star -- sorry I don't like satire with images that reinforce RW themes

Yes, I'm sorry, I don't have such a great sense of humor about trivializing Obama's message by having fun with the Obama as Rock Star theme. Hey, Elvis Lives !

But alas, it is an old story by now that lots of folks are enchanted with Obama. He has lots of dedicated fans "for whom he can do no wrong." They are "Obamaniacs." To them, he's a Barackstar. But that whole theme is a way to undercut Obama's message. Critics like to contend that it is all infatuation-- a teenaged crush, without substance. It's all glam you see. He's handsome, he's talented, he's a rock star.

The same folks think he's just saying change change change and promising people the world. They suggest he's fooling people with rosy scenarios. Instead, he makes balanced, intelligent, substantial proposals to solve various problems. He's very well informed and has lots of distinguished advisers(many too centrist for me) he consults on particular issues.

So you see, here we have a cover satirizing the Obama as Rock Star theme but floating an image in front of people that could reach a wider audience that would use it against Obama.

I disliked that Jib Jab also because it trivialized Obama's message. I suppose you could say it satirized the trivialization of his message but it could be absorbed by the millions of viewers as saying "He's all unicorns and hearts and flowers-- nothing real-- isn't he silly?"

[Radio_Lady]

194. UPDATE: I just saw the Jib-Jab piece this morning on "The View."

Monday morning.

They put Barack in a "Disney" world with sweet little illustrated animals -- was it Bambi and Thumper?

I thought the whole thing was brilliant. That was satire BIG TIME!

Anyone have the link to that?

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[AZBlue]

111. It's odd. I don't like it.

Can't say it's offensive, per se, but I'm not a fan. As I scrolled down, I saw the head first and the shirt open - reminded me for some reason of a rapper. Then I saw the bright light, unicorn and roses and just said, "WTF?!" I'm not sure what the message is supposed to be, and maybe that's part of the problem I have with it, but it's just weird. To me it seems like it might either be a parody of Obama or the artist's way of saying he's so wonderful he almost walks on water - and I disagree with either of those (I'm a HUGE Obama supporter, but he's a human being, just like everyone else).

[Alcibiades]

117. Looks more like Usher than Obama

Too young, for a start.

Plus, where's the swooning woman in his arms?

[ZinZen]

119. Oh, I hate this Messiah

complex that is being projected upon him. He seems pretty cool and collected. Even humble. This looks a movie poster/harlequin romance that is utterly devoid of reality.

[Beacool]

132. It turns me off.

The man is a politician, albeit a talented one, but a politician nonetheless. These efforts by some to make him seem as if he were the leader of a cult or a new messiah, make me recoil.

[Skittles]

133. creepy

it's the image I feel a lot of his supporters have though

[highplainsdem]

134. Obama should sue. And giddy 12-year-olds shouldn't be allowed near art supplies, or at least

the results should never be published.

And yes, I know, that wasn't done by a star struck 12-year-old.

I'd be very, very worried about any adult who had a positive reaction to that illo.

[Radio_Lady]

162. Hello highplainsdem --

This is by a local Portland, OR illustrator who does intricate comic book style work.

Warm regards,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[SoCalDem]

135. some of those "roses" look like bullet holes

:(

[Radio_Lady]

163. Ouch! I thought they were stars and beads of water! Or sweat!

Try to keep it in perspective.

Warm regards,

Radio Lady

[ismnotwasm]

136. The art is ok

I don't like it. The imagery is confused and busy. Shades of Richard Pryor (don't ask) A bad fantasy novel and old time religion. It also looks like it's trying to be a type of dream sequence after somebody read Way too much Freud after a three hour bible reading.-- water, bridges, rain/storm, roses and a white horse? And what the hell is that in his hand? A belt buckle?

Actually, Obama, being Obama seems to have the presence in this piece to overcome all kinds of nonsense. Even his pajamas. Which looks like looks a bit like a Salwar, which I hope was not the intent.

[Lorien]

137. I'd tell the illustrator to turn off the Enya, put down the water pipe and back

away from the patchouli.

Odd that he seems to be having explosive flatulence that includes having roses fly out of his ass.

[Eurobabe]

138. What is Puff Daddy doing on the cover, sans glasses?

IMHO, that picture would make anyone look like a bad velvet painting edition of the "procurer." :puke:

Sorry Lukas. :hi:

[davidpdx]

140. I think it's terrible

It is making Obama to be a cross between Elvis and Jesus. I understand there is some purpose behind the picture, but it's not very flattering.

[FlaGranny]

141. I actually

like the poster and art, but I don't think it is appropriate to represent Obama. Looks like a poster that a teen would keep in his/her bedroom of their favorite rock star. Kind of silly and it does reinforce the Obama as rock star or Obama as Jesus "worship" theme, and I don't like that. After all, Obama is just an imperfect human like the rest of us.

Edit: It is "offputting" to be gentle about it.

[saltpoint]

143. I like it. I understand that it is an idealized depiction, suggesting that

the candidate is so favorably held that he can walk on water, or in it, or whatever, and that roses appear unbidden in his aura as he strides ashore in a modern U.S. city.

The bridge in the backdrop is a link not only from one shore to another but to a new era whose catalyst is Obama's candidacy.

The stallion bears the good Horseman of the new Apocalypse. He's a good horse, sturdy and dutiful but mythic in every good respect. He inhabits the water as well as the land and so is likely among Poseidon's water-steeds. The Greeks could have told us all about Poseidon and his steeds, and it was the Greeks who gave us democracy.

The bridge connects. The horse bears the prophecy on its sturdy mythic back.

The image is messianic. Hope writ large. An exaggerated affirmation which gauges the deep despair of the last 8 years. It exaggerates the ordinary, but on purpose, and is testimony to why John McCain will not be the next president. The Obama image generates roses; McCain's would produce thorns.

Not pictured in the cover are the throngs of welcomers on the shore, eager for this new messenger.

- - -

I don't have any problem with an exaggerated image in the service of a hopeful direction. After the NEW YORKER cover of last week, I think Obama is owed this one.

[Radio_Lady]

150. Clarification: A local weekly alternative newspaper in Portland used this front cover on 4/30/08.

That was before Obama's record-breaking rally here on May 18, 2008 in Tom McCall Waterfront Park. It also came many weeks before the New Yorker image surfaced recently.

I just wanted to point out that the assumed chronology is wrong and so are my motivations. I certainly didn't want to mislead anyone. I found the picture kind of compelling, fascinating, and inspiring for some quirky reason. Maybe I'm a romantic, but I don't read romance novels. I am not a devotee of comic books -- the illustrator has done some other intesting work!

Here is some of it:



Thank for all your posts.

Cordially,

Radio Lady

[WeDidIt]

144. The first word that popped into my head was "CREEPY"

and this coming from a guy who started supporting Barack Obama for president in October of 2002.

[CreekDog]

145. it's weird

looks like a cross between American Beauty and Saturday Night Fever. :wtf:

[Marrah_G]

146. Ugh- he is not the American Idol

He is our Democratic Candidate for President. Not a Rock Star- Not a famous actor. But the man who is supposed to be wise enough to lead this country and hopefully bring some dignity back to the office of the President.

That looks more like a picture of "Diddy" then one of (hopefully) our next President. I think it portrays a stereo-type that could well lose as many voters as it thinks it will gain.

[SemiCharmedQuark]

151. It's not a campaign picture. It's a joke, apparently.

[Radio_Lady]

152. Please see my post #150.

Here's an another illustration by this artist -- we can all agree on this one!

[Marrah_G]

153. I didn't think it was a campaign picture. I am relieved that it was a joke though.

I don't know the publican and therefore unclear about their humor or point of view.

I do know people who would think it was perfect though...ugh.

[Radio_Lady]

156. Hi Marrah_G. Glad to see you're still posting.

Thanks for your comments.

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[Marrah_G]

158. Right back at ya Ms Radio!

Your posting are never dull!

It's been a tough election year, but we will get through it, like all the others, right?

:hug:

[Radio_Lady]

160. Yeah -- I have to concentrate on movie reviewing, organizing a yard sale,

and a vacation to Colorado -- all before the election!

Who said they've got nothing to do in retirement? :sarcasm:

:hug:

RL in OR

[SemiCharmedQuark]

159. Sorry, I didn't mean "campaign" picture. I couldn't find the right words...

Erm..."serious supporter's picture" maybe? Apologize if I sounded snarky.

[Radio_Lady]

161. No worries. I understand. Some people are still pretty sensitive.

It's a sign of the times!

:loveya:

I've got to get on with the important things in my life!

Making beds!

Washing dishes!

Cleaning a toilet or two!

My 84 year old aunt is coming to visit us on July 30th.

Warm regards,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[SemiCharmedQuark]

170. Cool beans

Good luck on your chores :)

[Marrah_G]

167. No, no, you didn't sund snarky, I got what you meant.

:hi:

[SemiCharmedQuark]

169. Thanks

:)

[chitty]

148. Retarded.

[Radio_Lady]

154. UPDATE: For UNITY! We can agree on this one. (ILLUSTRATION)

Another Lukas Ketner illustration. IMHO, he is one talented guy. Thanks for your responses to this.

Time to buckle down and work!

:loveya:

RL in OR

[Marie26]

155. LOL. nt

[scheming daemons]

157. I absolutely hate it... it portrays weakness and will NOT help get him elected

In fact, it will be the object of ridicule.

[Radio_Lady]

164. OK. I understand. The illustration has run its course. Printed on 4/30/08.

[Radio_Lady]

165. UPDATE: Over 3,000 people have viewed this post. We get it. Thanks for your opinions.

Here's an older illustration from the same artist.



Thanks, DUers.

[Blue_Tires]

166. what's that in his hand? a candy bar?

[snooper2]

168. Why does he have a McDonalds phone?

first thing I noticed..

[Radio_Lady]

173. Kindly check upthread... we think it's a beltbuckle with a B on it.

Thanks for your comments, snooper2

SeeU@theDU

[Radio_Lady]

174. We're still not sure -- see above. Superhero insignia with B for Barack?

[greymattermom]

178. better?

[Radio_Lady]

193. That's pretty amazing! Did you do that?

FAB-U-LOUS.

Put it in context for us.

Thanks.

RL in OR

[greymattermom]

226. seashell eyes

My daughter, seashell eyes, formerly of the lounge, did it. She's a professional illustrator.

[Radio_Lady]

227. I just admire the heck out of people like her. There's a real streak of art talent...

in my family.

Dad painted this in the mid-1950s.

His older sister, my Aunt Lillian was a portrait painter -- who became a hat designer in New York City. After that, she did a stint as a toy designer for Knickerbocker Toys. Her daughter has been a dancer and paints beautiful.

I got some of the aptitude -- and put it to work for almost a decade as a Regional Technical Consultant in the Professional Products Division for Clairol, the haircoloring company. I called on 3,000 beauty salons, teaching and passing out color charts and formulations.

I enjoy using color and design in my home. I might have become an interior decorator, but it never happened. My family has musical aptitudes, and I got some of those drives, too. I love to sing -- not too well, but husband doesn't complain (!). My memory for song lyrics and melody staggers even me. Wish I had mastered some instrument. Dad played the violin, Mom accompanied him on the piano. I'm a passive musician -- with a huge library of classical, popular, and jazz music on disk and tape.

Thanks for posting that illustration. It's remarkable!

Warm regards,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball in Oregon

[Phoonzang]

171. A cross between amusement and pity for the artist n/t

[On the Road]

176. Well, As That "Messiah" Site You Linked Says:

Obama is a LightWorker - an Attuned Being with Powerful Luminosity and High-Vibration Integrity who will actually help usher in a New Way of Being.

That would be one way to interpret it.

Or, you could say it makes him look like an idealized version of http://www.theonion.com/content/node/25754">Smoove B. (NTTAWWT)

You could ask whether Obama is a product of our collective fantasy like the unicorn in the background.

Or you could ask why he has unbuttoned his shirt to the navel and is covered in sweat, even though like Chuck Norris, Barack Obama reportedly never sweats.

I don't think this is a bad depiction if it inspires devotion among Obama's female supporters, although I wouldn't want it on the cover of The New Yorker.

[Bonobo]

177. Crap is my first reaction.

[Bluenorthwest]

179. It is a satirical image, not of Obama...

exactly, but it is 'taking the piss' out of how the Senator was seen in the weeks before his winning the nomination. The style and image, it is about the voters not about the Senator, it is about the media, not about the Senator.
Many wealthy dilatantes here would like to pretend that art exists as a price tag codifiable entitiy, something that can be declared 'tasteful' and 'hip' and sold to the affluent crowds who don't know a thing about art. They feel the artist and the work itself are a closed system, a two way system. The reality is that all art occurs in the mind of the observer or audience, and without those people it does not in fact exist.
I'm an Oregonian. This is satire, not about our nominee, but about how we 'painted' him. This is clearly pre-nomination art.
It is funny, religious and romance novel style. Note that in those styles no one ever looks 'real' they are idealized, they are portrayed the way the observer might see an object of affection or desire or even worship.
Not about Obama. About the Obama voters-ie, most of us, a few weeks back in time. And it is dead on.
And no offense to other posters, but many affluent areas that pretend to art loving are in fact actually in love with asthetic and design, which can be but are not always art, and art is not always even intened to be design friendly or a display of the artisit's skills. Sometimes the artist wants to make a point. This guy did it very well.
I'm sure he does not always paint in pop romantic icon sigals. Andy Warhol copied soup cans, but the man was one of the most technically proficient of artists, with a full scope of skill and talent. Much of the time he did not use those skills, as his art was not about his skills but again, about the observer, the audience. Posing as unskilled is often part of the artist's role.
I could go on and on, but I would bore and frighten the art fair crowd, who expect that the tshchkes they buy to dress up the residence are actually vital parts of the culture. This is art. Ugly and tacky intentionally so.
But it is not about the actual Obama at all. It serves to point out that the voters were not looking at reality.

[eShirl]

186. I think you are correct.

[Imagevision]

182. The artist was smoking weed and didn't ask an opinion from another before submitting?

[slackmaster]

184. Looks like a Mexican velvet painting

Except it's Obama's face on Elvis' body.

Now that I have read some of the replies I see I am not the only one who got that impression.

[eShirl]

185. Elvis. n/t

[goodgd_yall]

189. New Agey n/t

[Lilith Velkor]

198. A chuckle.

The real laughter comes from reading the replies. :rofl:

[Radio_Lady]

200. Isn't that always the way?

:rofl:

Smile 'though your heart is aching,
Smile, even 'though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky
You'll get by...
You'll see the sun come shining through, for you...

Thanks for your post, Lilith. I appreciate it. I'll look for yours, too.

This has been a very upsetting day...

RL in OR

[Lilith Velkor]

203. I'm sorry to read that

I hope it's not on account of this thread, which I find hilarious. I think reply #179 has it exactly right, and that's what bugs a lot of people in this forum: that picture is making fun of them (or them a few months ago), as opposed to the New Yorker cover making fun of the mindset of Fox News-addled right wing idiots.

"I'll look for yours, too." - I don't know what you mean by that. I rarely post, let alone do an OP. Except that one time recently I asked the Lounge lizards whether I qualify as a cougar. (I do, and I am. Sorry if that's TMI.)

Cheers, LV :toast:

[Radio_Lady]

204. Oh, OK. I thought you were just out of range in another forum or something.

I don't know what a cougar is. Don't bother to tell me. I'm not that curious and trying to accommodate the rules.

I've been a bad girl and been caught being insensitive enough to some folks. This thread didn't help.

Well, to tell the truth, I might bite the granite cookie soon.

Trying to make peace with some people here. Just trying to go with the flow.

Thanks for the beer!

Best regards,

Radio Lady Ellen Kimball

PS. Oh, you have the same initials as Las Vegas! That's sweet! :loveya:

[fed_up_mother]

201. A bad, smut, romance novel

UGH

[PerfectSage]

206. Looks like a card out of the Barack Obama Zen Tarot deck.

lol

[Radio_Lady]

213. LOL!

Thanks for posting, PerfectSage.

[Zuiderelle]

209. That's absolutely ghastly.

[Radio_Lady]

215. OK. Thanks for your comments. Please read as much as you wish about the Portland, OR connection.

This was a cover from April 30, 2008 -- Willamette Week is the alternative newspaper that saw fit to publish it. That was before the controversial Newsweek cover that was the subject of much derision recently.

All I wanted to do is get view points of DUers who are outside of our area. This thread has had more than 4,800 views.

Just an answer.

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[Zuiderelle]

218. And my answer was that it is ghastly.

It paints Obama supporters as idol-worshipers and Obama himself as some sort of second coming of Christ/Fabio. You asked for reactions and I gave you mine.

What on earth does the number of views have to do with anything?

Oh, and yeah, here's the post I'm responding to, in case you edit it:

Radio_Lady Wed Jul-23-08 03:56 PM
Response to Reply #209
215. OK. Thanks for your comments. Please read as much as you wish about the Portland, OR connection.

Edited on Wed Jul-23-08 03:58 PM by Radio_Lady
This was a cover from April 30, 2008 -- Willamette Week is the alternative newspaper that saw fit to publish it. That was before the controversial Newsweek cover that was the subject of much derision recently.

All I wanted to do is get view points of DUers who are outside of our area. This thread has had more than 4,800 views.

Just an answer.

Cordially,

Radio Lady in Oregon

[Sheets of Easter]

211. It's as bad as that painting of Bush, praying with the spirits of Washington & Lincoln.

And the phallic rose burst doesn't help, either.

edit- I get the context, now, after reading the whole thread. Yikes.

[Blue_In_AK]

217. I don't like it.

It looks like a black, skinny Elvis.

[PBS Poll-435]

219. I need DISCO and I need it NOW!

[PeaceNikki]

220. Changey the Unicorn is missing his horn.

And that makes me sad. :(

[Richardo]

221. "Changey"

:rofl:

[jane_pippin]

222. Hey, you're right! How's Changey going to project his

magic hope-beam without his horn?


Now I'm sad too.

[Zuiderelle]

224. What do you think the artist meant to have a hornless unicorn in the picture?

:cry:

[PeaceNikki]

225. Hmm... lookup "hornless unicorn" on Urban dictionary

Clearly there's some deep meaning in the message of the artist.

[NYC_SKP]

228. Each reaction tells us more about the person reacting than about the artist.

I find that interesting, far more interesting than the art.

:hi: