Atomic Tea Party
Artist
Jo Whaley
(American, born 1953)
Date1993 (printed 2025)
MediumPigment print
DimensionsSupport: 24 × 20 in. (61 × 50.8 cm)
ClassificationsPhotograph
Credit LineGift of Jo Whaley, 2025
Object number2025.14.2
DescriptionForeboding deep red and black backdrop with red fabric-covered table the width of the page, on top of which is a metal samovar (tinted pink and green), a teapot with cream and sugar vessels (the latter filled with green rocks) and a partially peeled lemon.eMuseum Notes
Early in her time in New Mexico, artist Jo Whaley constructed this ominous tea party in her studio, harnessing her skills as a painter of theatrical backdrops and some interesting props. The eerie sky and greenish light reflecting off the silvery urn and tea service leave not doubt that something is amiss. The sleek, space-age design of the urn has an industrial appearance that reinforces the mood of doom at the hands of human technology.
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