Competitions & Awards
Contest: 2024 Expressions of Humanity (Blue Square Gallery)
Artist: [Duskin Wayne]
Artwork Title: The Gemini
Medium: Oil-Over-Acrylic on Canvas
Dimensions: 36 x 36" (1.5" depth)
Dressing/Finish: Metal Floater Frame (rough-textured gold)
Created: November 2023
Price: $22,200.00
Artwork Statement:
"The Gemini" is a captivating exploration of the complex nature of human identity and the internal struggle between conflicting choices and beliefs. Through the merging of two faces, the painting symbolizes the duality inherent in the human experience, reflecting the myriads of emotions, thoughts, and perspectives that coexist within each individual. The title itself, "The Gemini," alludes to the dual nature of the zodiac sign, further emphasizing the theme of internal conflict and balance.
The expressive and abstract style adds depth and intensity to the piece, capturing the raw and unfiltered essence of human emotion and introspection. The bold use of color and form conveys the tumultuous journey of navigating personal morality and philosophy, as the faces intertwine and merge, blurring the boundaries between conflicting choices and expressions.
"The Gemini" invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of human nature and the constant negotiation between opposing forces within oneself. It serves as a powerful reminder of the universal struggle to reconcile conflicting desires and beliefs, ultimately encouraging introspection and empathy for the multifaceted nature of humanity.
Contest: 2024 Minnesota State Fair Art Competition
Status: Entry submitted as of 05-13-2024
Artist: [Duskin Wayne]
Artwork Title: "French They're"
Medium: Oil-Over-Acrylic on Canvas
Dimensions: 48 x 36" (1.5" depth)
Dressing/Finish: Metal Floater Frame
Created: November 2022
Price: $22,200.00
Artwork Statement:
The painting "French They're" delves into the complexities of human identity and the struggle to belong. Through a blend of abstract, loosely geometric and unconventional forms and a rich, layered color palette, the artist skillfully conveys the internal conflict of the central character. The deliberate ambiguity between the figure and the background serves as a metaphor for the human condition, where the desire to fit in with society clashes with the innate beauty and uniqueness of each individual.
The painting's concept speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with one's identity and the pressures to conform. The character embodies the tension between embracing her individuality and seeking acceptance within society. The intentional complexity in the layers of colors and forms invites viewers to contemplate the internal barriers that the character faces in celebrating her distinctiveness.
At 36x48 inches, "French They're" commands attention with its powerful visual presence, inviting viewers to ponder the complexities of human existence. Through the juxtaposition of the character's artistic beauty and their yearning to blend in, the painting prompts reflection on the nature of self-acceptance and societal constructs that shape our perceptions of identity. "French They're" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning work that resonates with the timeless struggle for authenticity and belonging.