All things bright, young and beautiful is a series of illustrations. The artist gathers inspiration from the 1920s Bright Young People, a group of unconventional individuals from the social elite, along with aristocrats from London, named by the tabloid for their lavish and decadent lifestyle.
Spellman analyzed how a generation of socialites embraced a hedonistic lifestyle while also establishing a protective space within their social circle, providing a refuge for LGBTQ individuals who face discrimination in the wider world.
English tea
2023
Digital Illustration
A beautiful afternoon scene with two gentlemen enjoying their high tea, which was usually a traditional custom followed by upper-class and society women back in the days, especially since the 1880s.
Spellman deliberately depicted two men engaging in this activity to subtly allude to the perceived suppressed sexuality prevalent in that particular era. Furthermore, the intention was to subvert the conventional masculine image imposed on men during that period of patriarchal society.
Years, lovers, and glasses of champagne
2023
Digital Illustration
This piece was inspired by the Italian saying "Years, lovers, and glasses of wine, these things must not be counted," from the cinematic movie "Age of Adeline," where romance and time intertwine.
In this instance, I replaced 'wine' with 'champagne,' envisioning a cascade of elixir reminiscent of the opulence of 1920s gatherings. The Bright Young People, aristocrats of the era, wove tales through days and nights—a ceaseless dance through the corridors of time. It prompts contemplation on whether indulgence in pleasures merely served as vessels for the echo of sorrows.
The Greatest Show
2023
Digital Illustration
The Bright Young Things are recognized for hosting extravagant social gatherings. Here, we find ourselves in a lavishly adorned theater, observing two gentlemen who are delighting in each other's company within the confines of a private stall while enjoying a theatrical performance. Despite the decadence associated with the lifestyle of the Bright Young People, it is noteworthy that their social circle serves as a welcoming and secure environment for individuals of the homosexual community.
SALTBURN
2023
Digital Illustration
"Saltburn," a film directed by Emerald Fennell in 2023, intricately weaves a modern tale of the Bright Young Things. In this illustration, I prioritize environmental design, making the mansion and maze the central focus rather than the character. Within the Bright Young Things' world, pursuing societal heights often leads to a labyrinthine journey, symbolized by the swirling maze.
