Twins, 2007, graphite and charcoal on canvas, 72 x 72 inches

06 of 10

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In this drawing I wanted to present an allegory of indecision. Basically one character that is confronted changed and confused by two forces. The drawing presents the central figure of a woman wearing a platinum blond wig that is being taunted by two other figures placed at either side. To the left there is a partial figure of a smiling boy with the phrase "United We Stand" on his forehead, and is shoving his fist into the mouth of the woman. To the right there is the head of and old man that is either crying or moaning at the woman. Both of these figures represent the two forces or catalysts in the narrative that are taunting or mocking the woman in the center, they could represent two political, religious perspectives or choices that the central character has to make and as such characterize the differences or similarities that are causing the indecision. The young boy shoving his fist is muting the woman denying her speech. He could represent a radical extremist choice or violent action while the old man that is not touching the woman, is moaning or crying and could represent an older, conservative perspective. They are both different in age and action but share similar traits, in their baldness, dark semblance and manner. The central character of the blond woman looks out at the viewer with an embarrassed smile, holding her arms to her ears refusing to hear. She also bears a third arm that is flaccid, mirroring her indecision. She is deaf and mute, tormented and presented to the viewer in reference to the classic motif of the "Christ mocked".

The title "Twins" alludes to the apparent duality that confronts the main character. Two things or thoughts that are closely related to each other, as the historically charged phrase "United We Stand" indicates, and serves to torment the blond woman into confusion and inaction, as she floats in a darkened, empty background. Ironically not standing.

The motif of two repeats throughout the canvas. There are two florescent lights, two apartment buildings in the background and even the space is separated in two by the gash of white sky and the bottom grey field.