Vanity Kane

Vanity Kane is an editorial artwork featured in the exhibition "Proudly Encoded" by OxSociety, a celebration of queer art in the web3 digital art movement. Inspired by the painting Vanity (1890) by Auguste Toulmouche, this piece delves into the complex emotions surrounding self-love and the influence of societal perceptions on personal identity. The artwork portrays a captivating scene where a dark-skinned character adorned in a mesmerizing couture pink garment and gold armor-like plates gazes lovingly at its reflection in the mirror. Through this visual narrative, the artist delves into the exploration of self-love and the intoxicating allure of vanity. The piece becomes a powerful reflection of the artist's own experiences, navigating the intersectionality of their identity growing up in a society that taught him self-doubt, shame, and negativity towards everything that made them whole. Vanity Kane (Kane a name from Irish origin meaning warrior, or Golden in Japanese) serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative journey toward self-acceptance and the reclamation of one's own beauty, beyond the image we seek in the mirror. It invites viewers to question societal norms and embrace all aspects of our identity, celebrating the unique and vibrant tapestry of our true selves. Through the juxtaposition of vivid colors, intricate costume design, and the subtle vulnerability captured in the character's self-reflection, Vanity Kane sparks a dialogue around the complexities of self-perception, self-worth, and the power of self-love in the face of societal pressures. This artwork invites the audience to reflect on their own journeys of self-discovery and acceptance, encouraging a shift towards a more inclusive and compassionate society that celebrates the diverse range of identities and expressions within the queer community. COMPOSITION -The artwork is a 3D render sculpt, post-process & color-graded in Photoshop/Lightroom with the assistance of AI to achieve a painterly feel to it. -The garment is a power suit dress with a draped cape designed created in Marvelous Designer. Adorn with gold chest plate and headwear to evoke an armoire.