Mini SeriesSegue to the Investigation
After completing a mind map, we created a mini series of three 5"x7" artworks surrounding our chosen theme of investigation. These are pieces incorporating traditional symbols of death with idealistic pieces of beauty. All pieces are done in acrylic and references from photographs online were used for the skulls. |
Investigation #4How is Death propelled by the Passing of Time?
Materials used: Acrylic and Pen Processes used: Experimentation with pen on acrylic and how to depict fading subjects in background Sources: Imagination Size: 5"x7" |
Investigation #5 and #6How can I represent a circle of Life and Death? Materials used: Acrylic Processes used: Multiple subjects, practice with more flora, contrast with butterflies of death Sources: References online for skulls/Imagination Size: 6"x 8" How does Opulence and Greed lead to quickened Death? Materials used: Acrylic Processes used: Experimentation with altered skull and snake shape Sources: Imagination Size: 6"x 8" |
Investigation #7 and #8How can I depict the transition from Life to Death? Materials used: Acrylic Processes used: Experimentation with palette knife for background, bright skull and flowers against dark black bird Sources: Imagination Size: 9"x 12" How can I illustrate a Necessary Balance between Life and Death? Materials used: Acrylic on wood panel Processes used: Using more realistic subjects, practice with fruit (pomegranate and strawberries) and leaves Sources: Multiple reference photos for skull and pomegranate Size: 9"x 12" |
Investigation #9 and #10Materials used: Acrylic
Processes used: Experimentation with full body skeleton, harsher flora Sources: Reference photo for skeleton/ Imagination Size: 9"x 12" Materials used: Acrylic
Processes used: Expressing freedom with traditional symbols of death Sources: Reference for skeleton/ Imagination Size: 9"x 12" With my Investigation, I aimed to illustrate the brevity of life and inevitability of Death. Inspired by 17th century Vanitas, I use provoking symbols of life and death, such as skulls, clocks, flowers, and fruit, to create balance and imbalance. Through my Investigation, I am continuing my practice of acrylic while experimenting with different techniques to express different ideas. Death is an incredibly taboo subject, in which many will shy away from, afraid of the fated. I want to open the conversation to Death, allow for innovation to improve the quality of life. Without a space for conversation, the state of Death will remain the same, and people will continue to live their lives in fear. |