Behind the Scene:

In order to create the work, a life-size installation was built. It served as a backdrop for the works and include a human model. All the elements, the set, relevant objects, the clothes, and the human model, are painted directly on the body of the model using acrylic paint. The character taking the position of the figure, as depicted in the painting, is then filmed and photographed.

 Video Demo Victoria - 2011 - Full HD
Edition 6+2A.P., Duration: 20min34sec 

Charles - 2011 - Full HD
Edition 6+2A.P., Duration: 19min28sec

The two living paintings Charles II and Victoria are inspired by a portrait of Queen Victoria (1819-1901), and King Charles II of England (1630-1685) showed in Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. The original paintings are exhibited in the National portrait gallery in London.

Photographic Works:

Charles II was 50 years old when he was painted by Thomas Hawker and Victoria was 19 years old when painted by Sir George Hayter.

Charles II of England (1630-1685), monarch of England, Scotland, and Ireland, was forced to exile after he lost a battle against Oliver Cromwell who instated a Republic that lasted 9 years. After this period, Charles came back to his country to restore the monarchy. Charles had no legitimate children, but acknowledged a dozen by seven mistresses.

Victoria (1819-1901), monarch of the United Kingdom from 1837 until her death, participated to a period of industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military change within the United Kingdom. She increased the power of the House of Commons at the expense of the House of Lords and the monarch. Victoria's monarchy placed a strong emphasis on morality and family values.