Prohibition (2023) Painting by Anthony Dunphy

This captivating historical painting is a visual narrative that whispers tales of a time when the spirit of rebellion danced alongside the rhythmic beats of jazz, and the allure of the forbidden fruit, alcohol, was a secret shared by many. The two men, caught in the act of disposing their liquor, are rendered with such vivid detail that one can almost hear the clinking of the bottles and the muffled laughter as they carry out their clandestine task.

The artist has masterfully captured the furtive glances and the tension in their postures, suggesting a hasty retreat from the prying eyes of the law. The bold brushstrokes and rich color palette evoke the energy and urgency of the era, with the stark contrast between the shadows and the light highlighting the illicit nature of their actions. The storm drain, a metaphor for the underbelly of society where such activities thrived, acts as a silent witness to their transgression.

The use of acrylics on canvas paper not only gives the piece a contemporary feel but also allows for a vibrancy that would be lost with more traditional mediums. The textured surface of the paper adds depth to the scene, as if each drop of paint is a raindrop in the storm of change that was the Prohibition. The size of the painting, 12X16 inches, is an intimate invitation to step into this covert world, offering a personal encounter with the defiance and excitement that permeated the air of the time.

Speakeasies and flappers, those iconic symbols of the 1920s, are not depicted directly but are instead cleverly implied through the context and the attire of the subjects. Their suits and hats, though not ostentatious, carry the subtle sophistication of the period, hinting at the glamour that could be found behind closed doors, if one knew where to look. The dimly lit streetscape in the background is a perfect backdrop for this moment of compliance and noncompliance, blending the line between the public and the private lives of those who sought refuge in the embrace of the speakeasy culture.

The overall composition is both dynamic and balanced, with the figures positioned in a way that leads the viewer's eye directly to the heart of the action—the act of disposing the alcohol. The tilted bottles and the dramatic arcs they form as they fall create a sense of movement, as if the scene itself is unfolding before our very eyes. It's a snapshot of a moment in time, frozen in paint, that tells a story of a society pushing back against the boundaries of morality and legality.

This piece is not just a visual representation of an event; it's a testament to human nature's propensity for seeking pleasure and camaraderie, even when it means bending the rules. It's a nod to the human spirit that, much like the whispers of a speakeasy's hidden location, cannot be entirely silenced. The vividness of the colors and the expressive style of the brushwork transport us to a world of whispers, jazz, and the sweet scent of rebellion. It's a reminder that even in the most trying of times, people will find ways to let their hair down and live a little.

Related themes

ProhibitionAmericaAlcohol.liquorBoozeHumor