Portfolio > Lou Posner: The Interface Between Life and Art

Posner described the title as “self-explanatory” and invited viewers to “try to find as many kings as you can.” The painting is a visual puzzle packed with references to kings from popular culture, history, advertising, games, food, music and other unexpected sources.

Among them is the “King of Pop,” Michael Jackson, at the lower right. Posner also slipped a self-portrait into the composition, just to the left of Jackson—a characteristically playful addition to a painting that rewards close looking.

Posner had a great deal of fun creating Kings, and viewers have continued the game, searching the crowded composition to see how many kings they can discover.