"Spring"
Mark Vallen 1975
Pencil on paper, 8" x 10" inches

Artist's statement:

"This metaphorical drawing addresses the conflict between two worlds. The floating disembodied head is actually based upon an Aztec mask portraying one of their primary gods, Xipe Totec, the God of Spring.

According to Aztec religious beliefs Xipe Totec came to the world once each year, and in his wake sprang new plant growth. The god would renew all things and bury the old world in a fresh mantle of green foliage and healthy, vigorous crops.

In my drawing, the old world is represented by a group of faceless generals and the polluting industrial factories they protect. The militarists, smartly saluting in uniforms dripping with medals, are unaware of their fate as Spring approaches. With eyes flashing bolts of lightning, the angry god is about to bury everything in a wave of virgin earth, tender young sprouts, and clear running waters."