FACE

The "Face" is not portraiture, it is not realism. It is best described as a symbolic representation of the inner workings of the mind. Its appeal lies in the fact that its subject matter is of universal relevance. It is a painting replete with symbolic markers - lets attempt to interpret some of these.

You might believe that the focal point of this painting is the "Face". But look again and I think you will discover that the focal point of this work is the mouth. The mouth draws the gaze of your eyes with its rich, liberal use of the highly emotive passion red that fills out the lips. The firm, determined set of the jaw indicates that passion and reason form the curves of the mouth. The mouth stands strong, vibrant and determined. It is not concealed by the shadow - it feels free in the light.

This is a Face that is contemplative, thoughtful, intense but not silenced. This "Face" is prepared to speak about love, friendship, and the little delights that pepper our lives; but do not forget the shadow, my friends. This "Face" does not shy away from enunciating bitter memories, loves lost and the arid moments of despair.

The use of shadowing is intriguing. Black and white, dark and light : these colours dance on the cheeks. Light and shade also signifies that this painting is about the partitioning of the self. Black shadow over one half conceals and reveals to us the den of murky , voracious grey matter that busily feeds upon itself. Light radiates from the other half of this "Face". Indicative of the Light that both attracts and reflects an earnest belief in the potential of possibility, of a firm grasp on hope, and the all consuming love of creativity that drives the artist.

The background is flooded with a strong violet. Violet as the colour of spirituality, strength and all pervasive love. Black bolts of fierce energy, a harsh , oppressive black, punctuate the tranquillity that the violet establishes. Black streaks of indecision, anger, hatred, despair, and sadness herald the moments of discordance that momentarily interrupt our lives. Violet is strong, it is warmth, it dominates the background and absorbs and transforms the energy of fleeting Black.

This fracturing of the psyche into dark versus light displays to us an unavoidable truth about being human. A vibrant life and a healthy psyche requires, no demands, that both halves , the light and the dark, co-exist and function as a harmonious whole. These two majestic and , at times warring forces, must be incorporated into one dynamic, passionate and intellectual human being. This joust is without end ; it is the essential path a human must travel .Perhaps that is true happiness : an individual who accepts the dark and fills it with light...

Art takes up this challenge. Art explores conflict and attempts to make it in some way fathomable. Often with great success.

Black against White -One and the same - yes?

Light versus shade -One and the same - no?

Sssshhhhhh....the mouth wishes to speak with you....