Johans Borman Fine Art

Richard Mudariki (b 1985)
The Gentleman’s Game - 2011
Acrylic on canvas
69,5 x 70
Signed and dated bottom right
On Loan

This painting portrays a game of etiquette for the gentry with a military connection. In war, as in billiards, opponents strategize and move their resources in order to reach their goal – in billiards the black ball, in war, victory. My observation of contemporary society is that the all-consuming anxiety to win and succeed has lead to deceitful actions and behaviour; and big business and politics becomes the playing field. Strategically getting the edge over one’s opponents, no matter the cost, has become as important as playing the game itself.