The Artist, Concealing
2017 painting on a masonite panel. Measures 8" by 8". This is the second painting of Daen's "Insect Divinity" series. This grouping of paintings represent various insects painted with a classic realism, juxtaposed against different 20th century modern art tropes. In this picture, a praying mantis grips to the edge of a Jackson Pollock-esque paint splatter, while other insects do the same in the periphery. The edges of the Snake Plant behind the mantis features also feature built-up paint, however this is done directly in order to increase the 3D effect of the painted shadows. The image plays with the schism between classicism and modernity in art, while the title also plays with a literal and figurative meaning.
Fine art paper and canvas prints of this painting are available through Saatchi Art Gallery starting at $60.