On February 1, 2019, the haunting art piece Breathless was shared on Instagram, a powerful creation whose imagery would later align with one of the most pivotal moments in recent history. The painting foretold the tragic death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, marking it as a chillingly accurate prediction of an event that sparked global movements for justice and equality.
Symbolism and Predictions in the Painting:
 
Young George Floyd and Derek Chauvin
The painting portrays two figures—one half of the face belongs to a young George Floyd, while the other figure in uniform represents a younger Derek Chauvin. This juxtaposition foreshadows the fateful encounter between Floyd and the officer.
The $20 Bill on George Floyd's Throat
A symbolic $20 bill is placed on George Floyd's throat in the painting. This detail references the event that led to Floyd’s detainment—an accusation of using a counterfeit $20 bill. The bill’s placement on his throat symbolizes the weight of this seemingly minor incident that escalated into a tragic loss of life.
Half of George Floyd's Face Nailed to the Ground
The composition intentionally shows only half of George Floyd's face. This artistic choice mirrors the physical reality during the event, as his head was pressed to the ground under Chauvin’s knee. It symbolizes the suppression, struggle, and helplessness Floyd experienced in his final moments.
 
Visual and Emotional Impact
Breathless uses stark contrasts of color to convey its themes—fiery reds, which represent anger, pain, and urgency, alongside cooler blues, which suggest authority, control, and cold indifference. The split composition reflects the division between oppressor and victim while alluding to societal fractures surrounding race, justice, and power.
 
Reflection
The prophetic nature of Breathless captures the weight of systemic issues that came to a head on May 25, 2020. Its unsettling accuracy, from the $20 bill to the position of Floyd’s head, highlights how art can serve as both a warning and a mirror to humanity’s realities. The piece transcends its medium to immortalize a moment that changed the world, urging reflection, accountability, and justice.
 
Printed on high-quality 24x36  Stretched Canvas  & Poster Print. 
 
Stunning ready-to-hang canvas
Museum wrap style
Protected against cracking, moisture, and light