Baby Snakes

“Baby Snakes”

I can’t fully understand where exactly “Baby Snakes” originated, but I think it is connected to the insane practice of snake handling in Appalachia. Though mostly out of practice now, I’ve heard a handful of churches still test their faith by handling rattlesnakes, drinking poison, and subjecting themselves to fire. Add a little electric guitar and dancing, and quite a scene is produced. I could do a whole series on this phenomenon, as I’m sure others have already done. The title is lifted from a favorite Frank Zappa tune as he was also a lover of the absurd.

Oil on birch panel. 15" x 19 3⁄4”

$1,200

| /