Triptych 006 : Ode to Valour
Left Panel
200 x 90 cm
Centre Panel
200 x 90 cm
“Ode to Valour”
2017 mixed media on canvas
200 x 270 cm
by Angel Correa
Sometimes we seem alive when we are dead; sometimes we seem dead when we are alive. What I was trying to depict was the life-force, by means of a representation of a pulse-meter reading, which weaves and connects us to ourselves and, inevitably, each other. I consider that the result is celebratory of life’s moments of valour, in that the impression of celebration is conveyed by what appear to be handfuls of confetti.
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The notion of valour – which can be everyday valour but in this case is depicted as the valour of fallen heroes – is conveyed by their being awarded a posthumous medal. The medals themselves are meant to appear as tattoos; in that sense, they have become irrevocably part of the identity of those who wear them – these medals cannot be removed and consigned to a box in a bedside drawer.
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We all have instances of valour in our lives which become part of our makeup and identity, and the sense is that until we breathe our last breath, such imprints remain with us. In death, they serve as talismans; as reminders of the greatness that resides in each of our souls.
Right Panel
200 x 90 cm