Atkins/May Project: Serpent's Kiss open edition giclèe art print

Commissioned by Paul May (guitarist/writer/producer) and Al Atkins (founder/original vocalist of Judas priest) for the first album in their Atkins/May Project trilogy.

In 2008, Paul May asked me to design an album cover with the title 'Serpent's Kiss', which was to have the theme of betrayal, something symbolic of Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Christ for 30 pieces of silver.  I immediately thought of the situation prevailing in the world, where populations are being gradually herded into the pen of financial slavery: the New World Order, as described in the Bible (Revelation chapter 13:16-18), or if you prefer, 'One ring to rule them all', JRR Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings.

If we are to believe 21st century newscasts, it would appear that the regular inhabitants of the western world have been betrayed by the few, in the relentless pursuit of wealth.  The heads of powerful banks and corporations continue to scream for larger bonuses, while the honest working people, without such privilege, lie awake at night wondering how they are to survive.  Money it seems  has become the "god" of the city of London, and the shining towers, the cathedrals of mammon.

In my view, the misuse of the power that great wealth can provide is one of the greatest enemies of mankind: 'For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?' Matthew 16:26 (King James Version).  Serpent's Kiss is my own take on the essence of betrayal and greed.

• Full Title: 'Serpent's Kiss' 
• Edition: open edition giclée print, hand-signed by Rodney Matthews
• Size (height x width): 447 x 420 mm (17.6 x 16.5 inches)
• Materials: pigmented inks & 240gsm matt photo paper
• Printed by: Rodney Matthews Studios, UK