Ouroboros
Medium Oil
Canvas Linen
Date 2023
Dimensions 200 × 120 cm
Edition 1/1
Ouroboros
This painting reinterprets the mythological concept of the Ouroboros, traditionally symbolized by a serpent or dragon eating its own tail, representing cycles, self-sufficiency, and eternal renewal. Here, the artist creatively translates this theme into the human form, connecting it to the human experience and condition.
Human as the Ouroboros:
The figure curling into a circular shape suggests self-containment, introspection, and the cyclical nature of life. It symbolizes the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth, reflecting how humans constantly consume, reflect on, and reinvent themselves. The athletic body shape of the figure is not just a physical attribute—it is a testament to hard work, continuous improvement, and the human strive for perfection. It embodies the dedication and effort required to shape not only the body but also the mind and soul into their most refined forms.
Space for Growth:
The dark space above the figure implies the infinite possibilities and opportunities for personal and spiritual expansion. It acknowledges that no matter how complete we may seem, there’s always room for development and exploration.
Continuous Self-Improvement:
The painting conveys the idea of a person who is perpetually shaping their body, mind, and soul, learning from their own mistakes, and enhancing themselves in the process. The figure symbolizes the resilience and capacity of humans to evolve through self-reflection and experience.
Color Palette:
The vibrant array of colors on the figure reflects the complexity and richness of the human soul. The use of diverse tones suggests wisdom, experience, and emotional depth, emphasizing how multifaceted humanity is.
Emotional Depth in Darkness:
The dark background is more than a simple void—it is a layered and intricate composition created using more than 10 colors stacked on top of one another. This detail highlights the complexity and rapid changes in the environment surrounding us. The layered background symbolizes how challenging and unpredictable external circumstances can be, constantly influencing and shaping the figure’s journey. This interplay between the dynamic background and the colorful figure underscores the human struggle to adapt, grow, and thrive in an ever-changing world.
Underlying Message:
By combining mythology with a humanistic approach, the painting transforms the Ouroboros into a profound reflection of the human spirit—dynamic, wise, and always striving to improve, learning from its past, and constantly reaching for greater heights amidst an evolving environment.