There was a Labor Day Popularity Contest in Ottawa, Illinois on September 6, 1936. It was open to all — men and women — between the ages of 16 and 25. I imagine that this came after the parade and included a talent competition and that winner probably threw really great parties.

I’ve painted on three antique voting tickets from that day — a woman who is graceful and beautiful, but who looks tortured and stoic. I imagined an internal war, the weight of societal pressures…

The triptych measures 3.5 in. x 7.5 inches and is mounted on black mat board. The original art has been framed in antique gold. Final measurements = 10.5 in x 12.5 in. This ships ready to hang.