Torn
Oil on canvas
76 cm x 91 cm
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
There is a pressure in the world for women to carry our scars and hurt and walk around in a metaphorical armour. To be harder or tougher in order to thrive.
Torn is an abstract oil painting that explores this question of how much one should let life change you fundamentally.
The intuitive approach to the artwork comes from the practice of emotive painting, allowing painting to be a personal cathartic experience.
The painting was created in reflection of a very traumatic and life-altering time when I was deeply betrayed by my partner, and had to go through the process of a divorce.
The soft, dreamy yellows and greys represent my true self: calm, peaceful and open. This is further emphasised by the smooth texture of the paint; however, I carry this wound, a tear soul deep.
The deep purple hues represent the soul and how deeply the event affected me. The colour and sudden impasto texture surrounding the gash further emphasise the contrast.
However, I do not allow the colours to swallow the canvas. I do not want the tear on my soul to define me. I do not want to be calloused. I wish to keep my spirit, my identity, in its most pure form.
This artwork is a constant reminder not to lose ourselves in the hardness of life.