“Dark Garden" (2024)
This is an exploration of solitude and enigmatic beauty. This ink dot illustration combines elements of art deco with ethereal symbolism to create a haunting yet captivating dark narrative.
The piece features a woman draped in silver silk perilously perched across her cold metal lounge with seemingly comfortless furnishings. Exuding elegance and serenity as she quietly sits amongst shadowy interplays, she is framed by luminous paper lanterns and strings of tea lights. Pink roses armed with needle-like thorns, alongside alien like flame lilies, provides a mysterious atmosphere to this cautionary scene.
The illustration conveys a sense of isolation and introspection, as the woman appears lost in thought, enveloped by the darkness and stillness of the night. Transparent face like malevolence sits in camouflaged throughout the background adding an air of mystery and foreboding, suggesting that the garden is not as tranquil as it may seem.
Through the interplay of light and shadow, delicate floral motifs, and the striking presence of the woman, "Dark Garden" invites the viewer to contemplate the duality of beauty and danger, as well as the emotions of solitude and introspection. The piece is a visual journey through a dreamlike garden, capturing the essence of art deco style while evoking a sense of intrigue and otherworldly enchantment.
I draw inspiration from two distinguished artists who have significantly influenced my artistic journey. The first, John Singer Sargent, particularly his mesmerising piece "Carnation, Lily, Rose" from 1885.
The second, the incomparable Tamara de Lempicka, celebrated for her art deco style, characterised by voluminous geometric shapes and classical poses.
In my interpretation, I weave the narratives of these two artistic influences into a singular, harmonious composition. The process of bringing "Dark Garden" to life has been a meticulous journey, spanning months of dedication.
Size A2 42cm x 59.4cm
Portrait
Cotton rag paper 310gsm
Archival ink