SOLD: Illuminati

ILLUMINATI • Presley Johnson

marker, glue, and construction paper

The artist’s piece was inspired by her study of ancient Greek vessels, particularly the decorative vases and wine containers. These ancient works traditionally depict symbols or stories of their people, and the Greek gods. This original design stylizes the classic Illuminati symbol. The society was formed in Bavaria in 1776. Their goals were to oppose superstition, obscurantism, religious influence over public life, and abuses of state power.  At the encouragement of the Catholic Church, they were outlawed in 1787 and went underground. They are said to be responsible for the French Revolution. In modern times, they are still vilified. They are alleged to conspire to control world affairs, by masterminding events and planting agents in governments and corporations, in order to gain political power and influence and to establish a New World Order. Central to some of the more widely known and elaborate conspiracy theories, the Illuminati have been depicted as lurking in the shadows and pulling the strings and levers of power in dozens of novels, films, television shows, comics, video games, and music videos. Many allege Presley is their youngest member.

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