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Freak Flag (Used)

Date2004

Label TextMungo Thomson ironically targets the mythologies of American nationalism with this unconventional flag, inverted and made of worn, faded denim. Using a material that is uniquely associated with the country’s modern history and individuals across geographic, political, and social boundaries, the artist prompts reflection on who is represented by this national symbol. The title refers to “let your freak flag fly,” a phrase that entered popular culture via Jimi Hendrix’s countercultural anthem “If 6 Was 9,” which includes the lyrics “I’m gonna wave my freak flag high.” Paraphrasing Hendrix, Thomson echoes this individualist counterpoint to the unity and cohesion suggested by the typical, unaltered American flag.

Object number2021.22.4

ProvenanceThe artist; [Margo Leavin Gallery, Los Angeles, California]; purchased from galery by Lee Plested, Bellingham, Washington, and Vancouver, British Columbia, 2004; to Seattle Art Museum, Seattle, Washington, 2021

Exhibition HistorySan Francisco, California, Jack Hanley Gallery, Land of the Free, curated by Lee Plested, Aug. 6 - 28, 2004. Los Angeles, California, Margo Leavin Gallery, Mungo Thomson, Sept. 11 - Oct. 16, 2004. Seattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Reverberations: Contemporary Art and Modern Classics, Dec. 22, 2022 - ongoing [on view beginning June 14, 2023].

Credit LineGift of Lee Plested and Erik von Mueller

Dimensions36 x 60 in. (91.4 x 152.4 cm)

MediumUsed denim, pole