This piece is a combination of effervescent colors associated with Plutchick’s psycho-evolutionary theory as well as the application of spontaneous and methodized gestures. The wide range of saturated blues and the impulsive flares of gold leaf allow “Depression” to function as platform for self-introspection. During this time, which felt like it would never end, I suffered from “Smiling Depression.” My job and circumstances compelled me to put on a mask where I appeared happy, but in reality, I was suffering internally. The painting begs the following question: “how does a person maintain his or her façade for the outside world while immersed in sorrow?”

Musical Pairings via “The Five Stages of Grief” Playlist on Spotify:

•      “Le Premier Bonheur Du Jour” by Os Mutantes

• “Iconography” by Max Richter

•      “Children” by Mica Levi

•      “Shadow of the Day” by Linkin Park

•      “Vanity” by Mica Levi