2024
Dopamine Series
131 x 88cm
51.5 x 35in
Acrylic, Oil Stick, Charcoal, Pastel on Canvas
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Beast of Burden, A Love Story
“Beast of Burden, A Love Story” presents an exploration of the evolving relationship we have with ourselves as we navigate desire, ambition, and self-discovery. Through the abstracted figures, the painting captures the dance between our aspirational self and the more primal, instinctive drives that surface in pursuit of pleasure and validation. The deep reds, bruised purples, and shadowed tones convey an emotional intensity, while the dynamic interplay of form and movement suggests the fluid nature of our identities — constantly shifting as we seek fulfillment in both fleeting moments and lasting connections.
The figures appear fragmented yet intertwined, reflecting the complexity of reconciling different parts of ourselves. The “beast” in the work is not an over obvious villain or bad character, but a part of our nature—one that pushes us to reach for more, even when the rewards are temporary or untrue. Rather than a battle, the composition suggests a necessary coexistence, a love story where the conscious and unconscious self are in poetic dialogue.
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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Originally made for a private studio exhibition in Mallorca, I crafted this exclusive seven-piece series which delves into the psychology and emotional states influenced by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
