About: RUSEL PARISH (b. 1977) lives and works in Williamsburg, NY. For other projects please go to: www.ruselparish.com. For more information please email.

About the work: This series takes subject with Michael Jackson with work that covers a variety of media, but the core are unique paintings that are built in layers of wax and resin, with broad slashing strokes of paint behind, in-between and below transparent and semi transparent layers of hardened gooey substances. This gives a haunting 3-d painted and sculptural effect only fitting for the reinventions of Michael Jackson, especially as the series covers the many altered stages of his life (to see stages click here). The work brings together pop, expressionism with religious iconography.

The series also includes a satire of MJ merchandise, with both of his vintage 1984 and 1995 dolls brought back to life. The dolls dubbed Wax MJ and Chocolate MJ come in a variety of wax colors and dark, milk or white chocolate candy. All the various figures are presented in full nude or in his iconic costumes from the 80s and 90s. The site also offering a full line of candles, stickers, shirts and magnets. 

The work is a study of Jackson and how media and cultural obsession can meet in a powerful way, multiplying images and ideas globally. From a small child his image was manipulated and eventually he manipulated himself.

As a society we have endless fascination with MJ. This work does not judge the addiction in which they were produced, but tries to understand its complexities. Having grown up with Michael Jackson and just like everyone else chronicling his life, if anything this is a study of my own obsession.

This new series had its debut showing in New York. For more info visit the Cult of Michael Jackson.

For more information please ruselparish (@) iheartmj.com