Comfort in bad times ahead

My newest painting reflects my deep-seated wishes for better times, not only in my personal life but also in the broader context of the world we inhabit. As I worked on this piece, I found myself grappling with the complexities of our current reality, filled with strife and turmoil, and I wanted to channel that into a visual representation of hope and transformation.

In Norse mythology, Huginn (Old Norse: "thought") and Muninn (Old Norse "memory" or "mind") are a fascinating pair of ravens that soar across the vast expanses of the world, known as Midgard, gathering knowledge and wisdom to bring back to the god Odin. These two ravens are not merely messengers; they embody the very essence of human consciousness, encapsulating the interplay between thought and memory, and their journeys symbolize the quest for understanding in a chaotic universe.

Muninn, in particular, represents the intricate concepts of mind and memory. He serves as a reminder of the importance of reflecting on our past experiences and the lessons they impart. Memory shapes our identity, influences our decisions, and guides our actions, making it a powerful force in our lives. In the context of my painting, Muninn embodies the collective memory of humanity, urging us to remember the ideals of compassion and unity that seem to be fading in the face of adversity.

There is an age-old saying: "It is from drunk and children we learn the truth." This adage speaks to the unfiltered honesty that often emerges from those who are uninhibited by societal norms or the complexities of adult life. Children, in their innocence, possess a unique perspective that can reveal profound truths about our world. This notion inspired me to incorporate a child into my artwork, serving as a poignant symbol of purity and untainted insight.

In my painting, this child holds a pacifier, a simple object that represents comfort and security in a world that has become increasingly filled with hate and violence. The act of providing Muninn with a pacifier signifies the urgent need for solace amidst chaos. It illustrates the struggle of this raven, who tirelessly attempts to convey messages of wisdom and understanding to a world that often turns a deaf ear. The imagery evokes a sense of empathy, inviting viewers to consider the emotional weight carried by those who seek to foster peace and connection in an age of division.