Self-Expectations

Penetrating with complex brush strokes and emitting a luminous energy, "Self-Expectations" focuses on the tremendous weight that is carried by individuals who relate to or have Body Dysmorphic Disorder . In the world of today, standards of the perfect image are higher than ever before, causing self-esteem to plummet when those expectations are not met.  In this painting, the artist uses two color palettes to represent a facade that the subject is wearing to protect themselves in the public eye, suggesting that what the viewer sees in a person might not always be what the person sees in themselves.  While the facial expression of the subject shown here seems to indicate a sadness or self-loathing quality, the details in the facial structure also promote a flicker of hope behind the mask, giving off a slight sense of security within the wearer. 

36" x 36"