Artwork Description
Walter Robinson – Petrol Jinni
Dimensions: 68 x 24 x 20″ sculpture
Year: 1990
Medium: polychromed wood, lead
Petrol Jinni by Walter Robinson was created during the build up to the first Iraq War. A nod to the work of Otto Dix and the harsh realities of war, Petrol Jinni serves as a commentary on a war over fought over resources. An amputee half stands in a bucket of petroleum, while the Aladdin-style lamp and title refer to the Arabic culture as well as the promise of exotic riches. The Genies of Arabic folklore granted wishes—usually along with a caveat or the danger of unintended consequences.Coded Language