The Last Lion 

Michael Parkes, born in 1944, created "The Last Lion" using oil paints, layering them to achieve a surreal, ethereal quality. Look closely and you’ll see the smooth, almost porcelain-like finish on the figures contrasted with the rough texture of the rocks. This tension between the real and the surreal is amplified by Parkes' meticulous technique, building up layers of thin glazes to create depth and luminosity. The labor-intensive process mirrors the allegorical content of the painting. The artist’s method requires a commitment to craft, much like the angel's dedication to the lion. Parkes' choice of traditional oil painting situates the artwork within a long history of figurative representation. Yet, it also challenges the contemporary art world's sometimes dismissive attitude towards skill-based practices. This commitment to time-honored techniques elevates the work beyond mere illustration, inviting us to consider the value of patience and precision. "The Last Lion" reminds us that the true meaning of a work of art is found in the convergence of material, process, and context.