Ravens Follow Men into War: Self Portrait
Oil on Linen, 28" x 31"
This painting is a departure from the flat, smooth surface I have used for the last couple of years. The image is sculpted in very low relief molding paste prior to painting. I still used the traditional Florentine method on top.
The concept of war is illusive to me. I find it ironic that ravens are intelligent enough to follow men into war (and eat the resulting carnage) but men, in spite of our intelligence, have not learned how to avoid war in the first place. The painting reflects on the contemplation of the wars we choose - what it means to be a man and a warrior - the idea of where we each take our raven. Our best battles may be the ones that make ourselves or humankind greater. Details are included below.
