Bulbes-acrylic and latex on canvas, 49″ x 23″, 2023
The composer and lyricist of Bulbes (“Potatoes”) text and music was published by S. Kisselgof in 1911, joking at the mean fare of Jews in the Old Country. It is traditionally sung by a male, so I wanted to explore possibilities from the female perspective with a little kitsch. Here, I’ve arranged some lyrics, (translated) as follows: once and again, potatoes, today and tomorrow.
It was my intention not to wrinkle the hands, allowing for the idea that their hands have been peeling so many potatoes they’re beginning to turn into potatoes themselves.
On the other hand, the women appear calm and focused on the task, conveying a sense of serenity and shared experience. Their expressions suggest deeply connected, comfortable companionship, with adult Luna moths representing fleeting moments of time.