Est. 1998
Michael & The Nymphs
Brett Livingstone Strong has painted more than one portrait of Michael, the most famous being ‘The Book.’
Another portrait exists of a young couple surrounded by young, fairy nymphs in an enchanted forest lagoon filled with ferns and flowers. The man is obviously Michael, and many speculate that the female figure is Lisa Marie Presley, as the artist reputedly introduced the couple. A small delicate fairy casts a beam of light on the two lovers. The exotic, colourful setting includes hummingbirds, butterflies, frogs, orchids, lilies and tropical flowers. This original oil painting is signed by the artist, dated ’95 and elegantly framed.
A little known fact is that this artwork is a modern day remake of the world renowned painting by John William Waterhouse (1849-1917) entitled ‘Hylas and the Nymphs’ and painted in 1897. This scene has also been recreated by other artists, most notably by Henrietta Rae. You will find photos of both these works on this website. The painting depicts a moment in Greek mythology where Hylas is lured into the spring by the nymphs. Notice the nymph pulling Michael by the arm and into the spring. Michael and Brett chose to recreate this magical and mythical scene due to Michael’s own persona of peace and love. It is as if Michael saw himself in Greek mythology and immortality. What has been perceived to be a controversial painting is in fact a magical and romantic masterpiece of such depths few have understood until now.
A brief history about Hylas: In Greek mythology, beautiful youth. He was the son of Theiodamas, king of the Dryopes, and friend of Heracles. Heracles took him along on the Argonauts Expedition. When they reached the shores of Mysia, Hylas went ashore to find water. He found a spring, but the Nymphs of the water lured him into the deep. Hylas fell in love with the nymphs and remained with them to share in their powers.
To bid on this piece which is being auctioned on Ebay, please visit eBay.com and search for ‘The Lovers Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie Presley.’
Source: thepassionportrait.com & MJWN
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