1540. From The ONE Series, 2022

Salvatore Arnone  

1540, 2022 by Salvatore Arnone. From the ONE series. Photography and pastel on Hahnemuhle paper. Paper size: 110 H x 80 W cm. Printed area: 100 H x 70 W cm.  Unframed Unique 

Despite photography remains his main form of expression, the author starts seeing some limits in this media to properly describe his altered and often dreamy vision of reality. In this series photography mixes with several other techniques (pastels, acrylic, pencil…) to represent the duality of objective/subjective, real and imaginary. This artwork is a striking fusion of photography and abstract illustration. It features a nude male figure with an overlay of bold red line work, creating the form of a wolf's head where the human face would be. The figure's stance is slightly off-balance, with multiple limbs suggesting motion or instability. The red lines extend across the body, highlighting the chest and limbs, adding an additional layer of complexity and tension. The choice of a neutral background enhances the vividness of the red, making the hybrid creature both unsettling and intriguing. This work challenges the viewer’s perception of identity and transformation, merging human vulnerability with animalistic ferocity. The seamless integration of the two mediums underscores the artist's innovative approach, inviting contemplation on the duality of human nature.