Oh Magazine – Losing Eden 2020

"Oh Magazine – Losing Eden," by Owen Gent, uses illustrative techniques to explore themes of innocence and loss. This artwork speaks to the universal narrative of "Losing Eden," a phrase evoking the biblical story of paradise lost, where naivety is shattered by knowledge and experience. The singular child figure, dwarfed by the enormity of the natural world, confronts an environment alive with birds, symbols of freedom and transition. The child, rendered with a deliberate simplicity, invites viewers to reflect on the vulnerability and resilience of youth. This visual narrative prompts us to consider the socio-cultural contexts that shape our understanding of childhood and the environment. It asks, at what point does the wonder of nature give way to an awareness of its fragility? The artwork beautifully captures the poignant moment of realization, hinting at the profound emotional shifts inherent in growing up and facing the world's complexities.