pleasure 6 (2011) Tekening door Artsurprise

This drawing is a work in preparation for a first series in the European art project ARTSURPRISE. Russo writes about this: Life in a Mask is a series of works depicting female forms (usually the most vulnerable of all) all adorning an antique style gas mask. The mask itself representing the older values that we look back on, as being elegant and honorable from times when interaction between people may have been more restricted, but equally intimate with a select few.

Today, desperation to be recognized, popular, accepted, followed or following which is eroding individualism, pigeonholing us all. Those without their recognized place suffer the wrath of societies judgment, causing anxiety, fear and increase pressure to conform for fear of insulation or isolation.

Behind the mask, one was able to have a level of privacy or intimacy without exposing oneself excessively, maintain a level of dignity and being comfortable with it. The masks are not only a screen to preverse dignity, but also for purposes more usually associated with the safety aspect of the device.

Protection from pollution, toxins, nuclear particles, even the harmful effects of the modern sun. All of them judgemental in their own way, leaving us to reap the consequences of our actions.

The mania of invasive surgery, the infinite promises of rejuvenation by way of cream & lotions for those you often dont need them, with celebrity in addition requiring the famous Photoshop touch ups. Obsessive self promotion. What has brought on this tidal wave of insecurity? WOULD PEOPLE FROM CENTURIES PAST BEHAVE LIKE US?

Verwante thema's

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