The Age of Confusion
“The Age of Confusion”, which is the name of this painting and of the whole series I'm working on at the moment, comments on the multifaceted roles and challenges faced by people in modern societies.
The main focus point is on the confusion a lot of us are feeling in a post-feminist era where genders share equal rights and opportunities (sadly, not all over the world, by far). New age comes with a new set of ideals that replace old traditional ways, and the question is, does it have the positive impact we hope for, and how do we navigate it?
Women have been encouraged to adopt career-oriented mindsets, sometimes overshadowing the importance and meaning of motherhood, which has now become an individual choice. However, we can’t forget that it still remains a deep natural desire for most women. What happens when we are taught that our most natural longing is a form of oppression, and how should we respond when we realise that a career and single life may not provide the fulfilment it's often portrayed to offer?
There are more lonely people than ever before. Contemporary relationships are challenged to discover new ways of functioning. Women are trying to navigate the delicate balance between their long fought for independence and building a fulfilling partnership, while men may no longer feel the same need to be strong and supportive partners, which makes them wonder what they are bringing into a union today. This shift in dynamics raises questions about how men and women fit into this new equation.
50x50 cm, Colored pencil on paper
framed and decorated with leather
The character’s outfit reflects the contrasting roles that women adopt: serious, business, man energy on the outside and gentle vibrancy within. The eye on the pocket symbolises a broad vision, and at the same time pink glasses we wear, making us blind to the true reasons of our unhappiness.
She is staring at, or perhaps beyond, a marble ball that represents a riddle and at the same time the substance of truth. Symbolically marble is believed to have strong metaphysical qualities of grounding and calming. Its earth energy can bring serenity and mental clarity.
It’s not all just confusion and gloom though. The wooden chair behind her serves as an element of support and value. A hand, maybe of a loving partner or a friend, gently reaches out to her, inviting, reminding, that she absolutely can be strong and self-sufficient, and yet find a different kind of freedom and happiness in a modern loving partnership. We don’t have to eliminate that part of life to become independent and powerful. It is a reminder, I dare say, that many of us are living in the best era of humanity, where women can be whatever they wish to be without sacrificing meaningful aspects of their lives. They can pursue their ambitions while also finding happiness in nurturing a family.
We can pause for a moment and embrace this unique time.
Bonfire Heart
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60x60 cm, Colored pencil on paper, framed and decorated with leather
Future can be intimidating. Whether we’ve been traumatised by something in the past and cautious of having that scenario repeat, or we’re excited to get to the next adventure, or it’s all combined in a strange duality of our feelings, we have a choice in how we walk into it. The moment we decide, we light a fire that fuels our determination. It gives us strength and tranquility. We share our experiences with those around us, but we can never really express what it’s like inside. Reading someone is like reading an ancient transcript from a language nobody knows anymore. We can seem serious, calm and sure, but inside we’re flaming with emotions. It’s then up to us to organise them, turn chaos into order and bring this structure of wisdom with us into the future.
