The priestess dances with the serpents, carrying messages between the spiritual and waking worlds. She whispers prayers of renewal, protection, and rain to the snakes, and sets them free to bring the messages to the spirit realm. The snakes continually shed and slough off a patina of pain in a cycle of transformation and rebirth. Blessings of nectar and medicine are tinged with venom. Her jeweled dress mimics the intricate patterns of the scales, gleaming in the Lichun light. Below, new life emerges from the belly of a giant serpent, her prayers ushering in dewy Descendents born from the sacred snakes.
An intricate, subtly colored embossment depicts a python coiled tightly, poised to swallow a Descendent who will be renewed within its sacred digestive fluids, emerging forever young.
I created Coil to celebrate this Lunar New Year, the Year of the Snake. As we prepare this print edition, Los Angeles—my home for the past 22 years—continues to grapple with fires of unprecedented magnitude. A portion of the proceeds from this edition will be donated to the LAFD, and I remain committed to supporting the various funds established for fellow artists and creatives who have lost so much in this catastrophe. Additionally, the numerous people who work on my projects will continue to have a stable source of income through the sale of this edition during these uncertain times. I deeply thank you all for your support.
Print: 26" x 19-1/8"
Image: 23" x 16-5/8"
Intricate holographic and foil detailing
Sculptural glass-like details and enhancements
Signed by James Jean and numbered
Release date: January 21 at 8 AM PT
Price: $525
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