Veruca Salt

(India ink on paper, 18”x13.5”)

This is the second piece in the Half-life series. The title refers to both the Roald Dahl character and the 90’s grunge band of the same name. The band’s single “Seether” describes a terrible temper that turns the protagonist into someone unrecognizable.

The song inspired me to explore the opposing sides of the temperamental aspect of life in this piece. In keeping with history and tradition, the dark, sinister half resides on the left of the composition, while the light, sweet side occupies the right. The tug-of-war between the two natures is often represented as a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other, but here I chose to portray myself as fully embodying each.

We all contend with balancing the dark and light sides of our inherent temperaments; as the song’s lyrics state: “Seether is neither black nor white”. While the responsibility of controlling our influences and reactions lies with each individual, we should also realize that some temperamental traits are viewed differently depending on who is displaying them. For instance, what is deemed “ambitious” and “authoritative” in men is frequently labeled “aggressive” and “overbearing” in women.

I know, you just want to listen to Veruca Salt now. Be my guest:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLCqyznXdAYhqp0YVi6XnXe9b9_HxuVqXa