Quiet in the Storm & The Invisible Crown

I created these two large canvases for my solo exhibition (see here). I knew I had a lot of space to fill by myself, as well as two canvases at hand that would help me to do so! These are my largest artworks to date. I used gesso, acrylic paint, soft pastels, and ink.

"Quiet in the Storm"

I possess a naturally quiet voice, inclined towards observation rather than contribution to conversation. This inclination has been a constant in my life, and I've noticed that the world does not always appreciate this quality. Instead of being described as charismatic, bubbly, or bold, I often hear more negative descriptors like "quiet" and "shy," with remarks like "can't get much out of her."

However, I've embraced a positive perspective, considering that my quiet voice and gentle demeanour might be something beneficial to a world drowning in noise. It's akin to being a calm force in the eye of a storm. Though this idea is only vaguely portrayed in this piece, it was the motivating thought behind it. The background, infused with red, symbolises chaos and noise. I refrain from detailing what that chaos might represent, as everyone has their unique idea and perspectives. 

In the portrayal, my model appears reserved and observant, surrounded by delicate flowers blooming in her presence, emphasising the softness and the silence that defines her. This piece seeks to promote the idea that it is not only acceptable but constructive to be soft, delicate, and sensitive, suggesting that perhaps these qualities are precisely what the world, surrounded by so much noise and chaos, needs.

"The Invisible Crown"

This piece builds upon the phrase, “health is an invisible crown that only sick people can see.” Living with chronic illness, I found this phrase intriguing, implying that we don't fully appreciate our health until it's no longer with us. In this metaphor, the crown is fragile and wilting away. The woman quietly endures and observes the world that undervalues health, promoting unhealthy habits, and neglecting mental well-being.

The colour choices reflect the meaning: purple being the colour primarily associated with fibromyalgia and M.E. These conditions are characterised by widespread and chronic pain and stiffness, as well as sleep, fatigue, memory and mood issues. My experience with it could be defined by all of the above - head to toe - a constant feeling of exhaustion; almost daily headaches; post exertion malaise; restless leg syndrome; poor quality sleep; heavy brain fog; digestive issues and temperature sensitivity. They are often accompanied by some form of pain in my legs, arm, throat, back and/or chest. Even putting my hair up can be too painful for me; my scalp will ache during and after, as though each hair follicle is badly bruised. 

This picture provides insight into the size of the artworks and illustrates how they appeared collectively in my exhibition. It captures a moment with my aunt and me discussing how my kitten would occasionally knock over the canvas while I was working on it, leading to a few imperfect lines. I believe this aspect enhances the artwork, as it reflects my dear pet's unique contribution!