unveiling truths | pathways to empowerment | PART III
armed & relevent | works in progress
artist statement
"armed & relevant" is a whimsically eerie exploration of resilience, recovery, and the courage to defy societal norms. This series delves into the complexities of standing up against adversity, offering visual reminders to stay the course even when faced with daunting challenges. Each painting captures the duality of strength and vulnerability, illustrating how shadows can be both haunting and empowering.
In "Don't Take the Bait" serves as a cautionary tale, urging viewers (& myself) to navigate conflicts with wisdom and restraint, avoiding the traps that lead to unnecessary strife. in the spring of 2024, while I was completing the painting, Drake and Kendric Lamar feud was all over the news, and as I painted I kept thinking don't do it. he did not heed my advice but I decided to name the lure the Drake as a tribute to our homegrown rapper.
The final piece in this series is a transformative journey from vulnerability to empowerment. A vulnerable child from the original 1969 print and the base image for the transformed painting "SuperGirl" from the "angry birds" series is reborn as a superhero, armed with sticks of dynamite, grit and mite. This powerful image symbolises the explosive potential within each of us to overcome our darkest moments and emerge stronger than ever. The growth and strength gained from "angry birds" struggles are now gathered to build a defence that stands strong and carries on.
armed & relevant
In a realm where shadows softly sigh,
Where grit and grace in twilight lie,
We rise like stars that light the sky,
Defying norms as we fly.
Through eerie shades and flickering light,
spirit blooms in the darkest night.
With every brushstroke, fierce and bright,
We stand our ground, ready for the fight.
So, gaze upon these tales we weave,
In hues of dark where truths believe.
From ashes to might, like phoenix flight,
With dynamite, ignite this heart so bright.
Enlightening shadows into sight,
We're fearless now; we'll own the night.
In our arms, the power thrives,
Not whispered doubts or silent cries.
We turn our fears to radiant skies,
And rise above where courage flies.
For every soul who's felt the sting,
Of societal chains and what they bring,
Stand your ground and celebrate—
With strength and heart, we liberate.