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Indifference

Posted on Jul 31, 2004  |   1034 views  

This painting is one of a pair, its companion being 'Regeneration.' Both were based upon shadows and light. Here the shapes came from a bay window. I traced the outlines loosely and allowed my subconscious to find forms. To my surprise, four entities emerged. The red figure is most obvious with its tiny, seemingly powerless hand raised to its chin, suggesting both anticipation and confusion. The outer part of its heart bleeds with a wound that is current, yet its darker centre hints at a much older injury also. It's shoulder bleeds too, perhaps because it has been carrying too heavy a load. This entity looks to the upper blue figure, who hovers precariously with indifference and looks away. The red figure may be waiting for a response, but if so, will probably be disappointed. It is not even aware of the lower blue face which wears a protective helmet of some kind and has an antennae reaching out. This figure is also waiting, or at least sensing and watchful. The image represents relationship issues that were resonant at the time, but whether the blue figures are aspects of one or different entities is a matter of interpretation. It seems most likely that they are aspects of one, with the result that a contradictory personality is indicated. The upper blue figure has a mythical quality and evokes classical notions of strength and judgement. The background is a timeless sky. It indicates an endless struggle, possible hope and solutions that feel intangible and out of reach. In the bottom left corner, there is an animal. This is probably Ruby, the artist's dog, a source of comfort at the time and a 'supportive influence,' hence the weight that upon her shoulders, echoing the red figure's bleeding shoulder. Overall, the painting is persuasive evidence that the subconscious can be more forthcoming and aware than the conscious. The image depicts aspects in action in most relationships. Rather than identifying the 'entities' as fixed individuals, it is more accurate to view them as aspects of personality that each person may shift between. At one moment, we may reach out or look for answers, but another time we may withhold and secretly sense the response this provokes, hoping for some kind of change or breakthrough. Overall, this is image addresses relationship problems with a sense of hope. The rapidly shifting sky indicates an element of change is underway, but the 'entities' seem too distracted to realise it. Thankfully, this is an optimistic sky, where the clouds are clearing, and light is just starting to break through. Change will come, and it will be good.

United Kingdom

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