This is a representation of Albrecht Durer's Melancholia. As I thought about what melancholia was, I came to the conclusion that it is not the feeling of sadness, as most think of the term. Melancholia is the point when an artist is contemplating either a subject, lighting, or the next step in achieving the art technique. This deep contemplation is mistaken to be depression. In making My Melancholia, I spent several hours in this pose contemplating my next step in the process of learning (thus the tree of knowledge being the focal point of the melancholic woman). The tulips represent the 7 steps towards enlightenment, which in the case of women, is the 7 steps towards purity.

This piece was created using professional grade acrylic paints on 1 1/2" gallery wrapped canvas, and has painted edges. The piece is currently available for purchase.

Prints of this piece now available through Imagekind.

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