Close Before Striking II, 2014

Roberto Fonfria   New & remarkable Artists

Close Before Striking II, 2014 Image size: 20 in. H x 16 in. W Frame size: 24 in. H x 20 in. W x 1 in. D Collage, watercolor, and graphite Mounted on a white frame.

This artwork is a fascinating exploration of identity and introspection, structured as a grid of four distinct portraits, each uniquely altered to convey deeper psychological narratives. Set against a muted brown paper background, the piece uses mixed media, combining elements of collage and text to create an engaging commentary on the human condition. In the top-left quadrant, a male face is rendered with fine detail, accompanied by the phrase "wake up" and a reflection on the inevitability of 'things will get better.' This pairing suggests themes of hope and self-awareness. Opposite, in the top-right quadrant, another male visage emerges, this time with exaggerated, almost mechanical features, drawing attention to the concept of self-definition through external expectations, highlighted by the text about dreams and wires. The bottom-left portrait is distinctly obscured, the eyes hidden by a band of red with a sequence of numerical digits. This deliberate concealment raises questions about anonymity and identity, reinforced by the accompanying statement about remaining motionless. In the bottom-right, a woman’s face is juxtaposed with text alluding to vulnerability and openness, speaking to the complexity of self-disclosure. The artwork's strength lies in its ability to evoke introspection, encouraging the viewer to consider the multifaceted nature of identity. Through its innovative use of portraiture and textual narrative, it challenges perceptions, inviting a dialogue about who we are beneath the layers.