Three paintings you haven't seen

From the art archives of SLART.

If this masterpiece is too long for email, you can read it here in Substack. Or download the app.

SLART Note: Today, I felt like sharing some of my works that I haven’t shared. A month ago I updated my art portlio so it would be a shame if no one sees the work!

NOT TODAY (2024)  – 80 CM x 53 CM  – ACRYLIC PAINTING ON CANVAS

Inspired by a vivid dream in which a mob leader shoved a gun into my mouth after I had angered his wife, this piece captures the peaceful intensity of that moment. The thoughts I experienced in the dream echoed, “I’m not afraid.” I knew I wasn’t ready to die, yet I wasn’t afraid of death either. I apologised, and he granted me mercy and then I woke up.

BOYHOOD, BROKEN (2023)  – 55 CM x 55 CM  – ACRYLIC PAINTING ON CANVAS

This artwork reflects on the transition from childhood innocence to the adult world. It captures a vivid memory from my childhood, featuring me and my best friend in a garage area near my home, a place where we often hung out. In the scene, we’re engrossed in an adult magazine we found, in awe of seeing a nude woman for the first time.

INTERNAL WARFARE (2023)  – 40 CM x 60 CM  – ACRYLIC PAINTING ON CANVAS

This artwork is a deeply personal tribute to my brother, a Gulf War veteran who struggled with the trauma of war and turned to alcohol to cope. On the left, I’ve depicted him as a shadowy figure sitting in darkness, both physically and metaphorically, holding a can of lager. This represents how the weight of his experiences and alcoholism isolated him. On the right, I’ve painted a vibrant figure, symbolising one of his comrades who lost his legs to a landmine—a stark reminder of the brutal realities they faced. The contrast between the dark figure and the colourful yet tragically wounded comrade highlights the profound impact of war on their lives. My brother passed away in December 2023 from liver cirrhosis, and this piece reflects his inner battles, the darkness that consumed him, and the vivid, painful memories that never left him.

Many brave souls witness war firsthand, the battles may cease, but the nightmare follows them home.