I began this self portrait in October 2024, initially depicting myself against a patterned backdrop. However, when the US election was called I felt like there was more I could add to this painting to reflect the year it was made in so I decided to restart. The new composition emerged as both a personal reflection and a commentary on our political landscape, exploring the duality of the symbols we hold dear.

The vulture is intended to stand in deliberate contrast to the American Bald Eagle, the United States' national symbol. While Bald Eagles and Vultures are genetically related, they also embody a striking dichotomy: the Bald Eagle symbolizes strength, courage, and freedom encompassing America’s national identity, while the vulture often represents judgment, death, and decay.

The red poppies, symbolizing renewal and destruction, were added as a reminder of the human cost of war and political conflict, as well as the cyclical nature of history.
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Echoes of the Past: Eurydice after Orpheus looks back
48 x 24 in.,
Oil
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Model/Photographer: Jennifer "jookpub" Günthel #jookpubstock
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#portrait #painting #portraitart #artist #classicalpainting #eurydice #orpheus #figureart #paint #underworld #candlelight #fog #spooky #oilpainting #art