Michael Jackson's brand is stronger than ever — but what about his image?
LONDON - Only Michael Jackson's eyes can be seen on the large LED screen resting on the floor.
Although it is easy to discern the visage as that of the late superstar, it would take the most ardent follower to recognize the footage from the 1993 broadcast he made denying accusations of sexual molestation and forever sealing his fate as a social pariah.
The video work from New York artist Jordan Wolfson was one of a number of provocative pieces in "Michael Jackson: On the Wall," a recently opened exhibit at the National Portrait Gallery in London.
"On the Wall" - it runs through October - examines Jackson's influence via 48 artists exploring his identity, artistry and fame.
"[Jackson] is such an extraordinary figure, such an important figure," said Nicholas Cullian, director of the National Portrait Gallery and curator of "On the Wall." "There's this complexity to him and what he embodies ... and we wanted to do a show that added something different to the conversation around him."
The London exhibit is a collaboration with the Jackson estate, which is in the midst of celebrating
