American Crucifix

Basswood, gold paint
20 x 18.75 x 6 in
51 x 47 x 15 cm
2016

Richard Humann • American Crucifix, Basswood, gold paint, 20 x 18.75 x 6 in, 2016

The infamous comedian, felon, and modern-day philosopher, Lenny Bruce once said, "If Jesus had been killed twenty years ago, Catholic school children would be wearing little electric chairs around their necks instead of crosses.”

American Crucifix is a physical continuation of this thought process. Executions in America are now done behind closed doors, not as public spectacles as in the past. The most common form of execution today in America is by lethal injection done on what is known as a "lethal injection table." Seen from above, the lethal injection table resembles that of a cross, or a crucifix, which has come to symbolize the sacrifice of a combination of mortal and god.

American Crucifix is a lethal injection table, donned in gold and mounted to the wall like a standard crucifix. It is religious acknowledgement, political statement, and decorated object combined.

Photo credit: Richard Humann Studio