Crown. 2022

Mendel painted this portrait as the US Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade, a landmark decision that conferred the right to have an abortion. Viewing this as a fight for fundamental human rights, he created a personification of heroism, representing an ongoing battle for equality and bodily autonomy. The crown of thorns on her head represents the martyrdom of those who stand up against oppression. For the artist, the portrait is a gesture of profound admiration and support for the activists fighting to preserve their human rights.