Shakespearean 2010

Michael Hafftka's "Shakespearean," at 70 by 35.5 centimeters, presents a compelling exploration of identity through the lens of theatricality and personal experience. Hafftka's expressionistic style captures the raw emotionality of the subject, invoking the dramatic intensity associated with Shakespearean characters. The subject's face, rendered in stark, contrasting colors, seems to emerge from a dark background, highlighting a sense of inner turmoil and conflict. The deliberate distortion of features and the application of paint emphasize psychological depth over mere physical resemblance. This approach aligns with Hafftka's broader artistic concerns, where portraiture serves as a vehicle to explore the complexities of human nature. Hafftka develops an alternative narrative, one that emphasizes the universal human experience of struggle and resilience. The painting serves as a reminder of the shared emotional landscape that connects us, inviting viewers to contemplate the multifaceted nature of identity and the enduring power of art to illuminate the human condition.