ADDICTED
"Addicted" is a profound and thought-provoking artwork that delves into the complexities of human existence, our mortality, and our constant pursuit for fulfilment and liberation. At the centre of the composition lies a human skull placed upon a holy chalice, symbolizing both our mortality and the potential for spiritual redemption through the sacred love of God.Â
Above the skull, the face of an anguished being emerges, presenting itself as a poignant representation of the pain and agony that we often carry within. It serves as a powerful reminder of the burdens and struggles that accompany our human experience, evoking a sense of shared vulnerability and the universal quest for solace and understanding.
In front of the skull rests a one-dollar bill, serving as a symbol of our worldly pursuits and insatiable hunger for material wealth. It signifies the pervasive influence of money and the allure of materialism in our lives, often leading us astray from more meaningful pursuits and genuine sources of fulfillment.
Within the recesses of the skull's mind, drugs are depicted, representing the vices and temporary highs that we turn to in our attempts to alleviate our suffering. These substances become a metaphor for the myriad distractions and escapes we seek in order to numb our pain, albeit temporarily. They reflect our yearning for respite and our search for transcendent experiences that provide a temporary release from the burdens of existence.
Close to the mouth of the skull, a medicinal bottle bears the label "Free Me from Me," accompanied by a syringe leaning towards the holy blood within the chalice. This powerful image becomes an emblem of our relentless pursuit of meaning and freedom from our own inner struggles. It speaks to the inherent human desire to break free from the confines of our own limitations and find solace, healing, and purpose.
"Addicted" invites viewers to reflect on the multifaceted dimensions of the human condition—the interplay between mortality, suffering, material desires, and the quest for spiritual liberation. It compels us to confront the choices we make and the coping mechanisms we employ in our search for meaning and freedom. It serves as a poignant reminder that true freedom and liberation may lie not in the temporary escapes we seek, but in reconnecting with the sacred and embracing a higher purpose beyond our individual selves.Â