Beneath the Ancient Veneer Painting

"Beneath the Ancient Veneer" is part of my series called, “My Tribe: In our Aging World,” which addresses society’s misconceptions on growing old and raises awareness of our aging population and encourages a dialogue between the two. Inside of us all is a stouthearted spirit that is cultivated over time. Our shell is scarred and shows signs of life’s battles, but we emerge victorious. We are filled with stories of courage and valor. Growing older takes dauntless bravery that only time can grant. The painting is on a large sheet of canvas that I have pulled and frayed at the edges to loosen the fibers. The distress canvas is screwed onto a wood paneled frame that looks weathered. These treatments to the canvas and frame further strengthen the symbolism of our aging bodies. The human form dominates the canvas in size to reinforce the message I am projecting to the viewer. The message is that our aging population is growing, vital to society, and full of splendor.