Diptych 05: Andrey & Demetry – “Enter Life More Fully”
“Enter Life More Fully”
2018 mixed media on canvas
200 x 180 cm - Diptych
200 x 90 cm - Panel
by Angel Correa
“The worst feeling in the world is when you know that you both love each other but still you just can’t be together.” - Anon
Technique and materials used
Mixed media on canvas (black and white printed cotton fabric): Acrylic, vinyl paint, medium, gesso, charcoal powder, water-based ink, permanent-ink marker, and varnish
Description of the work
I adored working on this particular diptych, as it evolved from firstly adding to the dark flowery texture the blue and purple bands, which from the outset seemed to make the backdrop much intense. The bold touch of colour is all the more so, when set against such imposing silhouettes; starkly white; set off with a meek and near-invisible black contour-line.
I’ve used an array of soft brushes, painting rollers and permanent ink-markers for the production of ‘Andrey & Demetry.’ This artwork is special to me because it was whilst painting this piece that I was able to engender what I consider to be a tender interpretation – one founded in my dedication to the message in this work.
You see, my own past history was at times one of vivid and playful memories; of flashback moments playing dolls, fighting over sticker-books and eating vanilla ice cream with my female cousins. The notion came to me that, as an artist, I’m here to give colour to the world. In modern-day Russia, there are gay men who on a daily basis experience entrapment, stabbing, shooting, the breaking of bones and the chilling brutal force of bullying.
I wanted to create a big bright white painting; a child-like giant who appears as a sweet lollipop of happiness, even against a backdrop of bitterness and intolerance. I wanted to create a reminder of the innumerable horrors suffered by minorities all across the globe. This is a strong but simple, deceptively clean piece of art for the dauntless owner.