The artwork, entitled “Wolfe’s Haircut,” was created by artist Kent Monkman in 2011. It belongs to the art movements of Postcolonial art and Queer art and falls under the genres of figurative and nude painting (nu).
The artwork portrays a dramatic and thought-provoking scene within an interior tent setting, illuminated gently by candlelight. A central figure, partially nude and adorned with striking purple high heels, holds a pair of scissors in a poised and deliberate manner, seemingly preparing to cut their own hair. The figure’s posture and detailed expression denote an air of contemplation and defiance, contributing layers of personal and political narrative.
In the background lies another nude figure, sprawled on a bed and fast asleep, contrasting with the alertness and activity of the main subject. Surrounding them are objects suggestive of historical and personal significance: a musket against the tent’s fabric, boots discarded carelessly on the wooden floor, a glass of wine, and a book among other items. The choice of objects and their placement can be interpreted as symbols or metaphors within the context of the depicted narrative.
The artwork intricately blends elements of historical references with contemporary questions of identity, power, and resistance, creating a rich visual dialogue grounded in Monkman’s distinctive artistic approach.
