Diptych 03: Lucas & Jules – “Rename Us as Strangers”
“Rename Us as Strangers”
2018 mixed media on canvas
200 x 90 cm - Panel
200 x 180 cm - Diptych
by Angel Correa
Technique and materials used
Mixed media on canvas (colour printed cotton fabric): Acrylics, vinyl paints, medium, gesso, charcoal powder, water-based inks, permanent-ink markers, and varnish
Detailed description of the work
I have ardently worked on this diptych, adding in succession the warm bright colours of red, orange and yellow to the silhouettes of these two figures who are the representation of a gay couple celebrating their wedding. The fabric was printed with tiny depictions of daisies and dots, all set against a blue backdrop. I used a full array of brushes and painting rollers, along with water-based ink markers.
‘Otto & Hans’, as an artwork, has a distinct message for me, because it was whilst painting these pieces that I understood my reason to remain in studio, persevering when the London 2018 summer was beckoning. I seem to be attracted to people who are living in the context of an array of intricate social, cultural and religious forces – often which conflict with each other.
The realisation came to me that this particular attraction is something I can use to give sense to what I’ve seen out there in the world. It seems to be a desire deep within me to articulate a great many unstructured socio-political situations; the way I’m using my creativity and imagination is to translate them into a visual narrative.
I find myself drawn to the visual narratives which articulate the sense of ‘place versus space’ which seems to be part of the work of British artist and sculptor Antony Gormley. I wanted to create a big bright colourful painting, one which was full of happiness and vibrant energy but, in reality, depicted the surroundings of a gay celebratory wedding – which is not always like this, and is usually a secular celebration.
As a man of faith myself, I have learned to accept that, in the House of God, sometimes there is darkness and disapproval. This is a unique piece of very particular art for the fervent owner who may, like me, have wished to be married in a place of faith but who had to concede to a secular union.