‘Hidden Portraits’ – Volker Hermes Reimagines Historical Figures in Overwhelming Frippery.

I have titled the below as I see fit.

Petunia had always been considered a diamond in the ruff.

Keith and Gary’s Excellent Bodacious Adventure

Finding suitable head-gear wasn’t always easy for Beatrice the Tit-head.

Eduardo kept his love for BDSM well concealed.

Phillip couldn’t help but feel his recently published filthy letters to Lady Cecily Fusspot-Arse had opened a whole can of perms.

The front cover of ‘Hide and Seek for Amateurs (plus fringe benefits)’ – 1631

French kissing Carol required serious perseverance.

If you hair long enough into the abyss, the abyss hairs back into you. So, think on.

Jemima would always leaf her suitors speechless when she revealed her fetish for Brussel sprouts.

Perpetually shy, Kieran always felt he lived his life between a lock and a hard lace.

bows

Joking aside, I think they’re superb works of art, and encourage you all to look at the rest of his work on his website Volker Hermes Conceptual Artist

This interview with him gives insight into his artwork, which he began ten years ago and the role the Covid pandemic and masking played in his recognition by the art world.

Hidden Portraits interview

Volker Hermes: In my opinion, the bridge to the historical aspect and, of course, the humorous treatment of the paintings takes the edge off the currently alarming situation. Initially, the viewer might perhaps think rather of a failed masquerading for a masked ball than feel that he is reminded of certain restrictions of his individuality due to the obligation to wear a mask. The connection often develops only at a second glance. In America, in particular, my works were often used as a call to wear a mask because my works were obviously neither aggressive nor politically motivated, which pleased me very much.