Suttee Felo de Se
Drawing on paper. Colored pencil, ink, acrylic. 8.5 × 11 inches. 2023
A Fusion of Despair and Defiance
This striking work, titled Suttee Felo de Se, grapples with the profound and often tragic themes of self-sacrifice, cultural tradition, and the human struggle between autonomy and societal expectations. The title itself layers complexity: "Suttee" references the controversial Hindu practice of widow immolation, while "Felo de Se" is a Latin phrase denoting self-inflicted death, charged with legal and moral implications.
Drawing on paper. Colored pencil, ink, acrylic. 8.5 × 11 inches. 2023
A Fusion of Despair and Defiance
This striking work, titled Suttee Felo de Se, grapples with the profound and often tragic themes of self-sacrifice, cultural tradition, and the human struggle between autonomy and societal expectations. The title itself layers complexity: "Suttee" references the controversial Hindu practice of widow immolation, while "Felo de Se" is a Latin phrase denoting self-inflicted death, charged with legal and moral implications.
Drawing on paper. Colored pencil, ink, acrylic. 8.5 × 11 inches. 2023
A Fusion of Despair and Defiance
This striking work, titled Suttee Felo de Se, grapples with the profound and often tragic themes of self-sacrifice, cultural tradition, and the human struggle between autonomy and societal expectations. The title itself layers complexity: "Suttee" references the controversial Hindu practice of widow immolation, while "Felo de Se" is a Latin phrase denoting self-inflicted death, charged with legal and moral implications.
The central form, marked by vivid blues and purples, serves as a nod to Ernst’s signature motifs, such as fantastical creatures and anthropomorphic forms. The surreal juxtaposition of organic shapes and the flowing blue figure suggest a merging of human consciousness with natural energy—a theme Ernst often explored.
The layered textures in the background, with their geometric patterns and vibrant hues, reflect Ernst’s pioneering use of techniques like frottage and grattage. These layered details give the piece an almost tactile quality, drawing viewers into its layered, labyrinthine space.
The bright pink lips and the ascending blue form might symbolize artistic expression and the act of creation, resonating with Ernst’s view of art as a deeply personal and transformative process. The organic arms reaching in different directions add a sense of movement and vitality, as if Ernst’s own creative energy is erupting from the piece.
This portrait is not just a visual homage but also an energetic celebration of Max Ernst’s legacy. It captures the boundary-pushing essence of his work, inviting viewers to step into a surreal world where nature, imagination, and art coalesce into one seamless narrative.
