back to list of artists 65. THE SPANISH MERCHANT’S DAUGHTER BY THE STONEMAN FAMILY, 1930 REMIX: JAMES JOHNSON-PERKINS AND MATTHEW COWAN, NO SIR, 2007 This song was recorded by one of the largest families in folk history, with each of the thirteen children playing an instrument to back up Ernest ‘Pop’ Stoneman and his wife Hattie. Johnson-Perkins and Cowan have photographed themselves as the maiden daughter of the Spanish Merchant and her suitor. The bouquet, top hat and carnation suggest that she has gone against her father’s wishes and accepted his marriage proposal. Cowan’s blackened face and Johnson-Perkins’ crude female dress is also influenced by the tradition of English Morris dance. Johnson-Perkins’ artwork uses humour, visual puns and everyday objects. Recent exhibitions include ‘After Urban - Videoart & Architecture’ in Philadelphia and Trampoline in Berlin. Cowan’s practice is situated in the realm of traditional British customs and culture. Photography: William Struthers