oil paint
8 x 10 in
Tense and self-constricting, a figure crouches on a dreamlike, hazy roof edge. Inspired by Gang of Youths’ song Achilles Come Down, a pair of narratives around suicidal ideation, this painting parallels depression and hope with classical and modern architectural features. The composition of the painting, divided sharply between city space and rooftop, parallels the two voices in the song, one urging Achilles to jump and one to save himself. The flatness of the image, as the canvas showing through, imitates the mental effects of depression.
Mary Holder is a current student of the University of Michigan, studying illustration, graphic design, and linguistics. She is an experienced observational painter, working in acrylic, oil, and watercolor, as well as charcoal and graphite. Her recent work has focused on collaborative projects, working across disciplines to create large-scale endeavors, such as geodesic structures and virtual reality experiences. She aims to inform, enthuse, and engage viewers, and create new appreciation for unconsidered aspects of the world around us.