I Am Better Than You, 2022
American flag, rhinestones, acrylic, resin on board
36 x 24 x 1.50 in
$3,318.93
The US Census Bureau placed the US population at 331,893,745 in the 2021 census. There are approximately 331,893 ultra-wealthy Americans in the top .01% who control nearly as much wealth as the bottom 90%. Priced at a penny for each .01%er, this piece speaks to inequality in America and the dominance of wealth over politics. It also subtly hints that white people control the vast majority of wealth or that we have already surrendered to the crushing influence of money in our democracy. The sparkle of money eclipses the colors of democracy, and we accept our inferiority.