:: 2009 :: 90cm x 30cm :: Acrylics, Gouache, Inks and Markers on Canvas ::
This is a dark, disquieting piece. We see a bound prisoner, frightened and isolated having been kept in the dark of solitary confinement for days. In the absence of visual stimulus, he has begun to hallucinate, a well- documented phenomenon called Prisoner’s Cinema. The humanoid forms of the visionary textures which surround the subject and emerge from his body suggest that he has been left isolated for many weeks. A contrast also exists between the playful, energetic forms of the visionary humanoids and the jagged, bound nature of the terrified prisoner. There is an intentionally homoerotic angle to this image, which seeks to quietly suggest that he has been imprisoned not for a crime but because he is gay, soemthing that happens all too often in the homophobic confines of many societies who do not respect human rights and the dignity of the individual.
This work derives from an experimental sketch (shown at the base of the page) which was produced for an international art show, the Mirca Tour for Human Rights, which raises its voice in support of the United Nations' Universal Declaration on Human Rights, in which it is stated that 'All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.' I continue to pray that this beautiful vision for humanity is fulfilled across the world.
