Monsieur Butterfly by Karen Chappelow

Artist Statement

“Monsieur butterfly a true story set in China with a male opera dancer impersonating a female dancer, and a French diplomat serving in China falling in love. They had a 20-year affair, the diplomat never once knowing that Shi Pei Pu was a man-always having sex in the dark. Shi Pei Pu even bought a child and presented it to him as their child. All the while Shi Pei Pu was obtaining secrets and sending these secrets back to the Chinese government. The role reversal in this story when considered with Madama Butterfly and the trick being played on the player (diplomat) with him enduring humiliation when the story became public tickled me somewhat. They both had to serve time in prison for their crimes.”

About the Artist

“I like it when I get a physical reaction from people when they view my art.  The whimsy, fun and sometimes political nature of life is evident in my work.  By expressing the fierceness of a female, the ridiculous in a scenario, becomes a message turned into humour softening the blow, breaking down barriers.  The expressionist nature of my work tries to blur the edges of reality and hopefully makes people smile, wonder, think and create conversation.”

Karen Chappelow has been sculpting and painting for more than 20 years, she has a drive for bucking the system and invites the viewer to view life through a different lens. Karen has collectors both Nationally and Internationally.

In recent times Karen has been extensively exhibiting in New York, Madrid, Luxembourg, Berlin, Rome and Malmo-Sweden. Also exhibiting in group shows in Perth and Melbourne. Karen’s work has appeared on the “The Block” a TV renovation show on Channel 9.

Karen will also be appearing in Home Design Magazine August 2023 edition.

Follow Instagram and Facebook @karenchappelow_artist for new work.