THE COLLECTOR (2017)

The concept of painting a Lockheed F-104 Starfighter with a Death's Head Moth and puncturing it with a life-sized needle reveals a profound exploration of symbolism, history, mortality, and human psychology. This artistic endeavor takes on multiple layers of meaning, drawing connections between the aircraft's tragic history, the act of collecting, and the human quest to deny mortality.

The Death's Head Moth, characterized by the skull-shaped markings on its chest, serves as a potent symbol of mortality and the inevitable cycle of life and death. The moth's attraction to the sun, which often leads to its demise, mirrors the rise and decline of the Lockheed F-104 Starfighter. This supersonic jet, known for its revolutionary yet risky design, broke records while also earning a notorious safety record and the nickname "The Widow Maker."

The juxtaposition of the Death's Head Moth with the F-104 Starfighter underscores the theme of denial of death. The act of collecting, described by cultural anthropologist Ernest Becker as a form of death denial and a quest for immortality, becomes a central motif. By applying this symbolism to the aircraft, the artist prompts viewers to contemplate the complex interplay between historical events, human aspirations, and the psychological mechanisms that drive our actions.

The inclusion of a life-sized needle, simultaneously puncturing both the aircraft and the moth, further reinforces the interconnectedness of these elements. It highlights the delicate balance between human endeavors, mortality, and the objects we create and collect. The needle serves as a tangible reminder of the fragility of life and the ultimate futility of attempts to preserve or deny the inevitability of death.

The tragic personal connection of a Belgian pilot's death in an F-104 Starfighter crash adds a poignant layer to the narrative, emphasizing the human cost and real-life consequences associated with such artifacts.

In essence, this artwork invites contemplation on the human condition, our pursuit of immortality through various means, and the paradoxical nature of our attempts to confront or evade the inevitability of death. It's a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of history, symbolism, and the existential questions that underlie our actions and choices.

© Text by Tom Simons
© Pictures by Tom Herck