2024
Dopamine Series
135 x 125cm
53 x 49in
Acrylic, Oil Stick, Charcoal, Pastel on Canvas
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By The Horns
“By The Horns” delivers a sophisticated portrayal of the human experience, depicting the act of confronting life’s challenges with intentionality and vigor. The central figure, caught in the dynamic moment of grasping the horns of an abstract animal form, becomes a symbol of agency in the face of uncertainty. Rather than a reckless leap into the unknown, the work suggests a thoughtful embrace of unpredictability, where risk and reward coexist. The composition’s sense of movement amplifies this theme, creating an atmosphere of tension and fluidity that reflects life’s constant evolution and the choices that propel us forward.
The imagery captures the delicate balance between control and spontaneity, where each decision feels both charged with potential and grounded in experience. The merging figures evoke a sense of unity and participation, reinforcing the idea that life’s adventures are shaped by our willingness to engage with the world fully. Through a nuanced exploration of courage and exploration, “By The Horns” presents an insightful meditation on the nature of risk, inviting viewers to consider the richness found in confronting life’s uncertainties with openness and resolve.
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Dopamine
Exhibition Concept
Originally made for a private studio exhibition in Mallorca, I crafted this exclusive seven-piece series which delves into the psychology and emotional states influenced by dopamine. This collection invites viewers to embark on a journey guided by imagination—from the forgotten simplicities of childhood’s purest pleasures to the complex web of self-manipulation that defines adulthood’s pursuit of dopamine. Through contorted forms, fragmented compositions and carefully selected palettes, each piece captures a distinct aspect of our relationship with this powerful neurotransmitter, offering a reflective exploration of how our brains are wired to seek and respond to pleasure.
Drawing from my signature mixed style, this series marries abstract figuration with emotive expression, aiming to provoke unique perspectives, thought and conversation. Each artwork stands as an individual narrative while contributing to a larger dialogue about the subconscious, desire, fulfillment, and the inherent contradictions in our pursuit of happiness. Through this work, I hope to inspire deeper contemplation on how the quest for dopamine shapes our experiences, behaviors, and identities.
-Grason Ratowsky
