The Lover

2022-2023

"The Lover" is an artwork that seeks to abolish the fourth wall in painting, making the viewer an essential component in a dialogue of looks. This piece stands apart from typical romanticized depictions of love by presenting the reality of homosexual love with all of its fears, vulnerability, and ambiguity. Two lovers stare at one another, never able to grip hands, reducing love to a single look of fear. Thus, it explores intimacy, longing and genuine connection from a homosexual perspective.