30" x 36" x 1.5"
Acrylic, conte and ink on canvas
2021
Hiding your true self from others is something you learned to do at a very young age, likely by accident. Maybe you did something that someone made you feel ashamed about. Maybe you were laughed at, and that pain cut right through to your heart.
You learned to protect yourself by retreating deep within, eager to spare yourself more hurt over the fear that the people you love wouldn't like what they saw in you. You learned to adjust, to adapt, to perform, to repress your true self for many years, until at some point, something changed, and it was no longer possible to continue the performance. That is when you felt a hint of bravery to step out from behind the curtain, and your life began to take on a whole new meaning, a new way of life that felt fulfilling, enriching and exciting.
Was your stepping out bold and fearless, in one big sweeping reveal? Or was it a trepidatious and cautious experience, like getting into the swimming pool one toe at a time before taking the plunge? Either way, the important thing is that you took steps towards being true to you.
This painting is about the fear and excitement behind the journey that comes with finally saying the things you needed to say in order to get back to your truth, your true Self.
More info about this product:
This painting was hand-stretched by the artist in her studio and mounted on 1.5" thick gallery-style stretchers. It can be hung as an exposed canvas, or framed in a floating wood frame for a more polished look. This painting comes with a hand-written 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. 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.