George and Mona in the Baths of Coloma

Beginning in the 1970s, Robert Arneson turned to portraiture in his ceramic sculpture. His work was also associated with the Funk movement, a Californian expression of Pop Art. George and Mona in the Baths of Coloma depicts the busts of George Washington, the first U.S. president, and Mona Lisa, sitting together in a pool of water. Arneson completed this piece on the occasion of the United State's bicentennial. George Washington's bust is based upon his image on the one dollar bill. In addition, the figure slightly resembles Arneson's facial proportions. By placing the two icons together in this scene Arneson comments on political, social and economic issues. For example, Arneson ironically claimed that the low level of water referred to the declining value of the dollar. The figures could also represent Arneson's view of the relationship between money and art. Arneson uses his wit by implying a sexual relationship between George and Mona.