"I told you I was sad" by PQHAÜS
(Acrylic on canvas / 16x20 inches / 2023
This painting, titled "I Told You I Was Sad," depicts the harsh reality of living in a world where seeking help for our declining mental health feels overly complicated and challenging and also how, as human beings, we aren't capable of stepping into someone's life and simply fixing their problems, as depression is sometimes like multiple layers of doors that don't have handles on both sides. Additionally, the artwork suggests that even if individuals lose their own battle with depression, the whole world just continues on as if nothing happened. People talk, smile, walk, and occupy themselves with little everyday things, emphasizing the stark contrast between personal struggles and the unaffected rhythm of everyday life.
In terms of symbolism, among all the words, the term "sad" is cast in shadow to suggest that the recognition of someone "being sad" is often overlooked and challenging to identify, as everyone is engaged in their own different battles.
A commonality shared by every individual in this painting is their use of headphones/earbuds, symbolizing how people are absorbed in their own concerns, unable to look around and take care of one another, reflecting the individualistic nature of society today. Lastly, the pregnant lady positioned behind the memorial stone signifies the perpetual cycle of life, with people leaving Earth and new individuals being created on Earth.
Overall, through this painting, my aim was to address the profound struggle of merely surviving as a human being with mental disorders and to highlight the reality that, in our complex world, we cannot always be heroes for others as it is exceedingly challenging to prioritize and care for ourselves. Lastly, the artwork explores how our world continues its routine, seemingly unaffected, even in the aftermath of the passing of our closest friends and family members.
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