It's always interesting to hear the different interpretations, meanings and messages generated by an abstract painting. We're such a complex species, we human beings. We read so much into the signs, portents and symbols surrounding us in our everyday lives. As an artist, I particularly enjoy hearing different interpretations of my paintings. They often vary vastly and sometimes generate wildly divergent reactions in different individuals. And they can polarize people, too. You either love 'em or you hate 'em. There is usually no gray area in between.
How do I feel about this painting, you ask. Well, I am technically pleased with the finished result; that is, I am pleased with the technique used in its creation. I am happy with the composition of the subject matter, application of the paint and use of colour. However, at a gut level, at an emotional level, I must confess that this is not one of my favourite paintings. It conjures-up for me a period in my life that is probably best left behind. When I look at this painting I see despair and desolation, symbolized by the frenetic application of the paint and the utilization of a cool, somber palette.
It does not pretend to be a photorealistic representation of my physical appearance. That was never my intention here. It is intended to represent the state of my psyche during a particularly turbulent period in my life.
It was so very interesting for me to read that this painting generated such interpretations as aggression and assertiveness in others. Perhaps that is subliminally what was on my mind at a deeply subconscious level when I painted this self portrait. But it would only have been because I wanted to assertively and aggressively escape the situation I was in at that time. Thank you, Sel and Jess, for presenting this interpretation to me. I value your feedback. Alas, however, for me it will always be a depressing painting, filled with desolation and despair.
