"Summer (Blue)" stems from Johns' series of four large encaustic paintings titled "The Seasons" (1987). Each painting was named after one of the four seasons and mixed cultural artifacts with seasonal symbols of growth, life, and death. In the left panel, Mona Lisa's mysterious gaze signals John's affinity for Leonardo da Vinci (and appropriation). Surrounding her are two of Johns' favorite motifs: the American flag and cross-hatching patterns. Also appearing in the image are vessels created by American potter George Ohr. There is also a tiny seahorse, a creature known to defy heteronormative gender roles. To Johns, a gay man, this tiny creature could carry important challenges to traditional narratives of gender and sexuality.
