The Exiled Spirits (2020)

Oil on canvas

H92cm W122cm

Profound religion and sincere spiritual pursuits do not fare well in a world dominated by global consumerism. Postmodern materialism is focused on efficiency, convenience, and instant gratification whereas religious or spiritual reflection favours patience, fortitude, and restraint. In our fast-paced life, once deepfelt, noble practices often become shallow rituals, with little or no meaning. Thus, spiritual life withers and with time the supernatural host is banished, and so, the shunned spirits huddle together in the wasteland, far beyond the gates of the modern metropolis.

The crowns extending from the heads and the animated bones indicate the trio’s supernatural nature. In addition, the crowns and the red robe are recognized symbols of nobility and authority. The massive wall surrounding the citadel is an emblem of parochial materialism. The spirits try to make most of their unfortunate predicament and prepare for a long, uneasy sleep. Yet, the lives of spirits are not bound by time, and so they patiently await the time when they will once again be called upon to reclaim their rightful place inside the gates, at the heart of culture and creativity.

CMN