Powerless is one of my first acrylic paintings made when I started taking my passion for art more seriously. I created it for my high school’s chapter of the National Art Honor’s Society when prompted to make a piece that would represent our work and be displayed for the group. As with most of my more “fine arts” based pieces, the image just popped into my head and I attributed meaning to it afterwards. Powerless is a commentary on internal corruption and inner struggles despite outward displays of prosperity. The woman in the painting may have the crown atop her head, but her black eyes and golden tears display an internal battle with something darker…

This pieces holds a significant personal meaning as well since my Dad was such a big help in the process. He taught me much of what I know about art, particularly in drawing and painting. This piece was a collaboration between the two of us as he taught me how to properly use acrylic paint and render the human form while I was working on it. Thanks Dad :)

Media: Acrylic paint of stretch canvas