I created this self-portrait for the Trickster Project, a series in collaboration with a theater piece called Trickster Tells This Story.  I was pleased to be on both ends of the collaboration, acting as well as painting.

While doing character research for the Asian Monkey (and for the painting I would create of myself as the Monkey), I discovered that the Chinese conception of those born in the year of the Monkey is that they are erratic geniuses.  Intelligent, skillful, flexible, they are remarkably inventive and original.  They are even well-liked by all! 

I was clearly spending too much time in the theater, because, as I learned these things about those born in the year of the Monkey, I came to identify entirely with the description—who wouldn’t?—and consequently forgot that I was born in the year of the Rooster. 

Those born in the year of the Rooster are proud and colorful show-offs who work hard and are extremely stubborn.  Indeed.  How very telling.

Well, at least David was born in the year of the Rooster as well.