The Sweet and Savage

Explore the duality of human nature in "The Sweet and Savage” by delving into the complexities of human nature, capturing the constant interplay between our capacity for love and compassion and our potential for violence and destruction.  The painting is a visual exploration of this duality, using contrasting colors, textures, and brushstrokes to represent the two sides of the human condition. The red represents the pleasurable and nurturing aspects of life. Juxtaposed against this - the  purple evokes a sense of coldness and mystery, representing the darker and more destructive tendencies within us. The rough and textured surface further emphasizes the contrasting elements at play. The contrasting colors are not neatly divided but interweave along a jagged border, suggesting that sweetness and savagery are not always easily separable. They are two sides of the same coin, and we experience both throughout our lives.

The title "The Sweet and Savage" underscores this duality. While "sweet" evokes pleasantness and gentleness, "savage" suggests violence and primal instincts. The painting is not a judgment on either side of human nature, but rather an observation of this inherent complexity. It is a reminder that we are capable of great kindness and love, but also immense destruction. "The Sweet and Savage" compels us to confront both sides of ourselves and grapple with the complexities of what it means to be human.

Medium: Acrylic and mixed media painting on canvas.

Dimensions: 11" x 14" x 1.5".