Pygmalion

48 x 58 inches

Acrylic on canvas with a digital augmented reality layer


Preparatory Digital Sketch

Inspired by the Greek myth of the sculptor who falls in love with a statue he created, this piece was made during the COVID lockdown period. I had recently bought a Virtual Reality headset to explore new artwork and engage with emerging VR technology and the growing “Metaverse” being built around it. However, I found myself disturbed and distraught by how easily my senses were deceived by this new “virtual” reality. Even worse, upon removing the headset, I became acutely aware—and disappointed—by my true physical reality.

Preparatory Digital Sketch
Digital Augmented Reality Layer

A digital layer in this piece adds depth and perspective to the painting’s narrative.