Pantha Rei TRIPTYCH (2008)

Acrylics on canvas

H120cm x W330cm

This triptych is inspired by the Greek, pre-Socratic philosopher, Heraclitus, whose philosophy can be captured in the words "pantha rei", literally meaning “everything flows”, that everything is in a constant state of flux, and that only change itself is real. Heraclitus famously pointed out, that we cannot step into the same river twice, meaning that growth and deterioration are the constants that define the extremes of our existence, from cradle to the grave.

Nevertheless, all living things, flora and fauna, defy this chaotic maelstrom in their struggle to survive and reproduce. Indeed, humans have managed to control and refine, these deep and mindless urges and have given them meaningful form, even a social and spiritual dimension. Since ancient times, humans have looked into the eye of the storm and discovered patterns in the turmoil, a structure or rhythm of life, a great wheel of existence marking the beginning, middle, and end of life. Each painting represents a stage in that natural progression through life, from childhood, through maturity, to old age and (hopefully) wise reflection.

All the figures have been fragmented and re-composed in a playful, primarily visual fashion to emphasize the themes of the triptych: The fleeting, fragmented nature of existence versus the imposed order of the human intellect. This idea is also reflected in the clouds constantly shifting and gyrating against the calm azure-blue sky.

In childhood we are carried through life, nurtured, and protected by the family. The life experience of the child is intense, yet limited in scope. Fast growth and discovery, but incapable of serious reflection. Unable to see beyond the veil of their immediate needs, children live in the present blissfully ignorant of the chaos held at bay by their guardians.

The wrecked barrel of the second painting is a reference to the renowned cynic, Diogenes of Sinope. As we mature, we begin to see the world in its grandeur, but we also notice the encroaching corruption and mindless chaos. The young, however, have the energy and determination to break free of the mold and set out on their own in pursuit of career, family, and procreation. At this stage in life, "pantha rei" is seen as a challenge rather than a constant of nature.

Finally, in old age, when our bodies begin to deteriorate, time seems to accelerate. Many of the important pursuits of youth and middle age seem futile when weighed against eternity. The facts of knowledge have been transformed into the wisdom of lived experience. Through reflection we strive to come to terms with the human condition, and so it seems the answers to the great enigma of existence must be found within rather than in the constant flux of the world.

CMN