Like all successful memes the original concept is easily understandable. Its theme of motherhood is universal, and the composition and colour of Whistler’s painting is simple enough for it to be copied easily. Because it lacks any narrative content, the image also has an open-ended quality, making resilient to endlessly remixes, particularly ones done in a subversive spirit. The mother’s air of rectitude and stoicism can be effectively juxtaposed with any form of silliness, and her old-fashioned air contrasted with up-to-date technology. Even switching her with a cat or dog continues to be surprisingly amusing. Its popularity as an image was launched by its appearance in printed media in the early 20th Century, and it was perpetuated in Disney cartoons, magazine covers and adverts, and today you can easily discover reenactments involving a host of unlikely personalities, including Muppets, Ninja Turtles and Sesame Street characters.
