OZ&OZYMANDIAS

OZ&OZYMANDIAS by MARKEL is a compelling exploration of the illusion and decay of power. Inspired by literary giants, this piece delves into the nature of authority and influence—how it is perceived, manipulated, and ultimately, how it crumbles. By drawing on the iconic images of the Wizard of Oz and Percy Bysshe Shelley’s sonnet Ozymandias, MARKEL questions the foundations of power, reminding us that even the greatest rulers and symbols of dominance are vulnerable to time’s inevitable decay.

Full Quote from MARKEL:

"The concept of power has always fascinated me. The largest person in the room would be thought to be the most powerful, but it wouldn’t be true. Politicians have power (prestige), kings had power (gold), artists can have power (influence). But power only resides where we think it is. Kings and presidents have sent armies to the doorsteps of their enemies since the beginning of time. But a king is only one man. How does he control a sea of bodies from marching on himself… the answer is that he doesn’t."

To quote Game of Thrones: 'Power resides where men believe it resides. It's a trick, a shadow on the wall. And, a very small man can cast a very large shadow.'

"OZ from Wizard of Oz pretended to be this great powerful figure… it was just a trick. The sonnet of Ozymandias is the discovery of the statue of Ramesses decaying, telling us how power deteriorates and decays over time."

The Illusion of Power, The Reality of Decay

In OZ&OZYMANDIAS, MARKEL brings together two of history’s most iconic symbols of power and deception. On one side, the Wizard of Oz—seemingly powerful but revealed to be nothing more than an illusion. On the other, the crumbling statue of Ozymandias, an ancient king whose once-mighty empire is reduced to ruin, a reminder that all power is fleeting. These figures represent different aspects of the same truth: power is often an illusion, a fragile construction that exists only as long as people believe in it.

With bold, dynamic strokes, MARKEL’s work reflects the grandiosity and eventual decay of perceived strength. The piece is layered with symbolism that speaks to how power—whether rooted in gold, influence, or prestige—inevitably crumbles, leaving behind nothing but shadows on the wall. The vibrant colors, fragmented figures, and crumbling edges invite viewers to confront their own perceptions of authority and influence, questioning who truly holds power and how long it will last.

OZ&OZYMANDIAS is a thought-provoking work that challenges conventional ideas of dominance, control, and influence. It speaks directly to those who appreciate art with historical and philosophical depth. This piece is not only visually striking, but it also holds a narrative that resonates on a personal and societal level—how power is wielded, how it deceives, and how it ultimately fades. A strong addition to any collection, OZ&OZYMANDIAS will captivate and provoke conversation, serving as a powerful reminder of the impermanence of even the mightiest of forces.

Add this introspective piece to your collection today and let OZ&OZYMANDIAS become a centerpiece of contemplation and discourse on the nature of power, illusion, and decay.