The Story Behind the Artwork
This painting explores dynamics of power and competition, drawing inspiration from both pageants and the social structure of bees. In a hive, only one bee can be queen, and similarly, leadership and recognition can be intense but fleeting. The artwork reflects the duality of power and vulnerability: although the central figure appears to triumph, their position is just one part of a larger cycle.
The design of the painting takes cues from Japanese “magical girl” animation. At the center, the figure stands over their “Miss Universe” sash with the phrase “All hail the queen”, holding a toy scepter and crown. Surrounding them, fallen queen bees represent the struggle to maintain leadership, illustrating that competition and prominence are just links in a broader system.
