“When the power of love overcomes the love of power there will be peace – Sri Chinmoy”
The above Sri Chinmoy quote and the current modern attitude (obsessive and massive consumption, the taking-and-plundering of nature, and the man-eat-man mindset) inspired a new print design for Valentine's Day.
My thoughts on Valentine's Day? – Love. It’s the reason for the season, but no chocolate and roses for me, thanks. In this day and age I think we'd all benefit from an urgent, collective and respectful love for our environment and for each other. It’s the small gestures like opening a door for someone, listening without interrupting, spending real face-to-face time with your loved ones, sharing what you have with your neighbour without expecting anything in return, and looking for the best in everyone you meet and with an open mind. That is SUPER. And it makes you a HERO. And what about the earth? Like Aretha said, 'All I'm askin' is for a little respect'. Let's give it some and be mindful every day, not just on Valentine's Day.
I scoured vintage comics, advertising and mass media material and didn't have to look far for imagery inspired by and glamorising war and violence. Whether it was comics telling the stories of World Wars, 'super heroes' fighting for 'good' over 'evil', or petty 'cat-fights' between female office workers, I had plenty to choose from to create this artwork.
This print encourages a re-focus and offers perspective; let's allow our love for, not power over, others and our land set the tone for our collective future.
SPECS: Indigo digital print on German Etch 300gsm stock. 250x270mm