On The Hook 2020

Kayla Mahaffey's 2020 painting "On The Hook" features a child in distress, bound with string and a hook in their mouth, surrounded by a chaotic, colorful background. The child's exaggerated expression and the bright, playful imagery create a stark juxtaposition, suggesting a tension between innocence and vulnerability. The work engages with themes of childhood trauma, exploitation, and the power dynamics that shape our lives. "On The Hook" is a poignant commentary on the complexities of modern life, often interpreted as a critique of social injustice and systemic oppression.