Jan Brokof (1977) picked up the phenomenon of cannibalism some years ago after discovering the chronicle by 16th century adventurer Hans Staden who survived his stay with the Tupi Indians, a cannibal tribe in Brasil. By describing the Indians he also defines himself as a European who thinks from western values. Brokof used this perspective as a vehicle to express our fascination and anxiety for the unknown and the other.
In Cannibal Politics he applies the phenomenon of cannibalisation in a cultural sense, by mixing elements from pop and internet culture with classical and historical imagery. Tropical landscapes are paired with scenes from colonial times, fierce amazons and bikini girls. Brokof uses stamps and collage in his acrylic drawings in a bright poster like style.
In 'Cannibal Politics, Dead is Forever', Jan Brokof has put a skeleton in front of a cannibal woman with bright red lips who has just started eating a human leg. The skeleton is derived from a Roman mosaic from Pompeii. The skeleton holds two wine jugs, conveying both a mento mori and carpe diem: enjoy life now before it is over.