By revisiting the mythology of the national standard (or flag), Gekko once again levels criticism at our relationship with traditional emblems. In deconstructing, thanks to trompe l'oeil, this imago symbol of integrity and national coherence, Gekko derives a composite image of what constitutes the "nation" and the "national".
The double meaning of the term "standard" is, of course, deliberate; implying perhaps that deviation from the traditional norms and accepted rules has a destabilising effect on identity.
A painting both anecdotal and simplistic, but at the same time powerful and symbolic; requiring just a few lines of colour for the central motif to emerge.