Claire Salvo, Lana, 2023

2.5 x 6.25 in
6.35 x 15.87 cm

Claire Salvo’s Lana turns a single dollar into a cinematic close-up. Painted directly over Washington’s portrait, Lana Del Rey appears bathed in soft California light, hoop earrings and cross necklace glinting against a halo of lilac. The contrast between the nostalgic glamour of her likeness and the strict geometry of the banknote turns everyday currency into a tiny album cover - an ode to melancholy pop stardom and the price we put on beauty, fame, and American dreams.