Carol Shikany

Queen for a Day. …life comes at you fast
oil on canvas
18 x 24 in. 

This painting illustrates the fleeting nature of the Brides’ ritualized recognition in our society.

The Bride is beautifully turned out, in control and successfully in possession of her chosen mate. He plays a subordinate role today. Today she receives (possibly) the greatest public recognition she will ever know.

Beyond this day she will (likely) play the subordinate role. The Bride is white, educated, middle to upper-middle-class and American. She has been socialized, historically, to be modest, to be supportive of her fellow workers, her mate and her family. Is she sacrificing her own dreams and ambitions? If so, why? Who is on her side?

© Carol Shikany