Medium: Mixed Media on Canvas: Acrylic, Tin Foil and Various Magazine Clippings from Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters and Free People Spring/Summer 2011 Catalogs, Elle and Vogue Magazines (“The greatest experiment of all time…” “Independent” “Personality,” “Art of” “Attitude”). (SOLD)
This painting seeks to embody the spirit of independence—the independence gained from making choices that reflect our true selves. Everyday we make choices—choices that serve to impede our personal (healthy) development, or those that serve to promote our well-being. Each photograph captures the unabashed gaze of a woman who knows herself and knows what she wants. There is great power and security in such knowledge; through it, confidence and self-worth are derived. In less abstract terms, I am drawn to people who are authentic, those whose lives (as demonstrated by their daily choices and interactions) are a direct manifestation of their essence. We might describe these people as refreshing, honest and unencumbered. There is no disconnection between who they are and what they do and say.We spend so much time apologizing to others for who we are: playing games, compromising our values and adjusting our personalities and bodies to make ourselves more “agreeable.” We have inherited a society that regards artificiality as a necessary “not-so-evil,” a means to attain what we want. Yet, what is achieved by superficial means is never lasting. We learn this. E.g. Breast implants often require repair and revision surgeries (Implant: limited product life). I suggest that we embrace ourselves, love ourselves for who we are and the unique gifts we bring to the world. Admiration of another person and their distinct gifts is no fault. However, when a person’s admiration is realized by obsessive emulation, they have missed the point. We honor ourselves by working on our character. It is character that matters.
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