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Painting the Tragic Side of Existence
In the image of the crucified Christ who “takes away the sin of the world,” the Church also re- ceives the tragic and sinful experiences and fail- ures of man, for it is the Body of the crucified Lord. In order to save the world, the Church must pass through the reality of death.
In the grand canvas of life, colors collide and in- tertwine. Like a skilled painter’s brush, life also touches upon the tragic side, where somber strokes and shades of gray depict the darker aspects of hu- man existence. The painter of life, with an astute eye, captures the essence of both joy and sorrow, unveil- ing the intricacies of the human journey.
The 2022 painting “Argonaut California Gold Mine 1922” is a stirring artwork commemorating the tragic Argonaut mine disaster of 1922, where 48 min- ers were tragically trapped deep underground due to a catastrophic fire. This piece juxtaposes the starkly different realities of above and below ground, each reflecting distinct aspects of the human experience.
Above ground, the painting captures the apa- thetic society, continuing their lives with indiffer- ence to the unfolding tragedy below. This aspect cri- tiques the often uncaring attitude of society, which can ignore the struggles and sufferings of others while maintaining the routine of daily life.
Below ground, the painting shifts focus to the strenuous and collective efforts of workers, tirelessly
searching for the trapped miners. This represents the strength and unity of the human spirit, showcas- ing our capacity to unite and provide aid in times of crisis. Each brush stroke tells a story, reflecting the somber realities of life.
The painting uses the mine’s daunting darkness as a metaphor for life’s challenges and uncertainties. It symbolizes our pursuit of material gains, like coal, gold, or silver, while also confronting the inevitabili- ty of loss and despair.
In my artistic expression, I portray life prevailing over the darkness and brutality of war, seeing the world through a lens where even the flawed once embodied goodness. My paintings capture the cha- otic scenes of battle, almost like a dance, transform- ing them into allegories for life’s relentless struggle, with life emerging as the ultimate victor. This energy and vitality stem from a Christian vision of the fu- ture. Behind the imposing figure of a warlord in my paintings, there’s an underlying theme of battling against evil and our inner demons, a personal call to conquer the darker aspects of our nature.
Yet, even amidst the darker tones, there is a beauty in the raw and unfiltered expression of hu- man experiences. Just as an artist’s creation can evoke deep emotions, the canvas of life offers pro- found opportunities for growth, introspection, and connection.
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