Abraham Lincoln, the 16th American president, continues to be a source of fascination and inspiration in modern pop culture. Recently, a new documentary suggested that Lincoln may have been gay, while the Broadway show “Oh, Mary!” humorously portrays him as less than honest. At the Hamptons Art Fair, a striking painting of Lincoln titled “Forever Friday” caught the attention of many. Created by artist Lindsay Ekstrom, this $36,000 portrait showcases Lincoln in a whole new light – dressed in a floral tux jacket, sporting a Rolex watch, a diamond ring, and personalized cufflinks. Ekstrom is known for her unique take on cultural icons, such as Albert Einstein with tattoos or Frida Kahlo in overalls. She has also painted Lincoln in an Adidas track jacket and jeans, further pushing the boundaries of traditional portrayals of the Great Emancipator.
Artistic Challenges and Triumphs
The painting “Forever Friday” had a turbulent journey to its display at the Hamptons fair. After being commissioned to paint both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln for a boardroom, Ekstrom’s creations were packed and left with a courier. Unfortunately, Lincoln’s painting went missing in what seemed to be an art heist. However, after weeks of investigation, the piece was recovered, albeit with a gash in the canvas. Ekstrom’s husband, also involved in their gallery, explained how they decided to re-stretch the damaged canvas and repaint it for display. The incident served as a learning experience for the artist, reminding her of the importance of secure packaging and handling of valuable artworks. Despite the setback, the reimagined Lincoln piece was proudly displayed at the fair, showcasing Ekstrom’s resilience and dedication to her craft.
A Special Bond with Lincoln
Lindsay Ekstrom’s connection to Abraham Lincoln runs deep. In fact, she painted Lincoln as her very first portrait, highlighting the special place he holds in her artistic journey. Despite the challenges faced along the way, Ekstrom’s love for her work and her subjects shines through. The reimagined Lincoln painting serves as a testament to her passion and unwavering commitment to her art. Moreover, it challenges viewers to rethink their perceptions of historical figures and embrace new interpretations of familiar faces. Through her innovative approach to portraiture, Ekstrom invites us to see Lincoln in a fresh, vibrant light, bridging the gap between past and present in a truly captivating way.