Betrayal, oil on linen, 4’x5′

Creation, oil on linen, 30″x36″

In these paintings, I present open-ended scenarios that are placed in a theatrical setting, which is suggested by the flat space created with the use of patterned backdrops. A mythology is insinuated in the paintings by a common underlining theme that exists in many cultures through out time and locations, the myth of the “Prophet”. I choose to depict the prophet as a hand puppet to add more possible narratives and interpretations to the paintings. This in turn challenges the balance of logos and mythos in each viewer; in order for a myth to be effective, it can not be approached in a purely secular setting. The viewer must accept what is presented without skepticism. Each viewer brings with him/her a different experience, and therefore, a different interpretation of the paintings.

In my most recent work, I have explored the relationship that exists between modernity and mythology, mythos and logos. As Karen Armstrong states in her book, A Short History of Myth, mythology is a constructed “counter narrative” that allows humans to come to terms with their fears and desires, and gives them a sense of significance (Canongate, 2005.) As our society becomes modernized, everything has to be explained in order to be accepted. Logic corresponds to facts.

Doubt, oil on linen, 36″x36″