That painting? Done.
All nighter? Pulled.
Slept yet? No.
I’m happy with it. I don’t know a title yet. I’ll figure something out. I may or may not add more to it. I originally wanted it lavishly-detailed but now I kind of like the abstract simplicity that emerged as I aimed for photorealism (edited for time constraints).
The painting is for my studio class, and the vague theme of this assignment was identity. I eventually settled on this because I’ve never not lived in the suburbs and it’s become more and more apparent how much it is every part of me. I’m born to parents from two very different cultures, so instead of being raised in either one, I grew up with the mass consensus of Ontario monoculture. Television, racist classmates and neighbours and no exposure to anything worthwhile. I’ve spent a lot of time hating the suburbs and all the trappings thereof, but this project became a huge exercise in accepting and embracing this big part of me.
Each step, from hand-drawing the street grid in pencil, to plotting out the lots, to shading in the green and painting the houses, was laborious and meditative. The best approach was to space out and somehow shit got gone (according to my very specific process). The whole thing was an experience. Every strange intersection reminded me of somewhere I’d been growing up. The other angle I approached this from was wanting to portray the contrast of tight proximity with the utter lack of community. Everyone is in opposition and competition with everyone around them. Better lawns, better gardens, better entertainment systems cocooned inside. Everyone is divided, for the benefit of augmenting their castle. Mass redundancy. Also you must own and operate a car to be able to do anything.
I could write tons more but I’m mentally and physically exhausted. I’m happy with this piece.
Photo:
