50” x 54” x 1.5”
Acrylic, flashe, ink on canvas
2021 - 2022
It used to be about him, about them. It was always about how to do more, give more, be more, try harder. To be loved meant to give all of herself, selflessly, to another without any space left to receive love. To love was to demand nothing, to give everything. She gave all of herself to him, and to them, and to the City, until one day she realized she kept nothing for herself. To love was to lose herself. She left pieces of herself behind everywhere she went, and it seemed great until it wasn’t. And there are still parts of her scattered throughout the City, little bits of her pain and little sparkles of her happiness remain in all the places, but now, there’s nothing sad about it, in fact, she is more connected to her City than ever before. It is a part of her, and little parts of her will remain part of it, forever.
This painting was originally completed in 2021 and previously entitled Lost In Love, which is shown as the last photo.
The I Used To Hate This City collection embodies a celebration of self-empowerment, rage, persistence, triumph, perspective and resilience. It explores the evolution of the artist’s relationship with the City of Hamilton over the course of the past year as it shifted from Love, to Hate, back to Love again. These themes coincide with what the artist has experienced on her personal journey but also touch upon her observations of the City during recent times of gentrification, isolation and political change.
The paintings in this collection began as self-portraits that have since been covered with layers of paint, spray paint, coffee, and gold leaf to form abstracted depictions of Hamilton landmarks that are reminiscent of the new memories the artist has created in familiar places.
The idea that the artist's previous and new-found sense of identity is strongly tied to various landmarks for the worse or the better is a relevant aspect of this collection and a reminder that while our environment may feel static and permanent, our minds and hearts are in a constant state of change and growth.
More info about this product:
This painting was hand-stretched by the artist in her studio on 1.5" gallery frames. It can be hung as an exposed canvas, or framed in a floating wood frame for a more polished look. This painting comes with an artist statement and signature. If you purchase this painting you will be contacted by the artist for more information about pick-up options in downtown Hamilton, Ontario, or delivery/shipping information. *Decorative frame not included*
Please note that the buyer is responsible for any shipping charges and/or for picking up the painting, but the artist will facilitate the process by obtaining quotes, packaging the product safely, and bringing it to a shipping centre at no extra cost. Reach out to the artist directly through the Contact page for any inquiries regarding this piece.
*This is an original painting by Tania LaCaria, there is only one in the world. Frame not included.