Self-portrait 

Curator: Well, look at that, it’s as if the painting is peering right into my soul. Editor: Yes, quite intense, isn't it? The artwork before us is simply called "Self-portrait" by Armand Henrion. Curator: First thing that hits me is, like, pure vulnerability. It's in the wide, almost startled eyes and, weirdly, that cigarette dangling from the lips. Makes me wonder what he's trying to hide or maybe desperately share. What's the symbolism of clowns, historically, right? Like, comedy veiling the sad truth. Editor: Exactly! You're spot-on. The clown archetype dates back millennia - think ancient Roman theatre. The whiteface traditionally symbolizes a blank canvas, ready to absorb projections of the audience's desires, fears, anxieties. This figure is vulnerable, sure, but also complicit in the theatrical performance of self. The yellow cap sits a little jaunty amidst all the melancholy. And the ruff... a grand, traditional affectation to both conceal and announce. Curator: It almost hurts to look at, yet I can’t look away. There’s something captivating in those unflinching, slightly bloodshot eyes. Editor: I think it's that directness, unmediated, heightened by the artist's choice of attire. Notice the impasto technique – how the paint is built up thickly, giving the skin texture and depth, lending him presence. The oil paint almost allows one to perceive his interior. Curator: I suppose if you decide to share a raw unfiltered piece of you with the world it’s got to come off powerfully! But as far as the symbolism is concerned…the act of holding that cigarette like he needs something to hold onto. Editor: An object of ritual. Of performance. Perhaps of solace, too. Curator: Looking at it this way truly enriches the viewing, giving one access to deeper symbolism and intent in ways that aren’t visible at face value. Editor: Yes. We're all walking symbolic structures to some degree. Seeing an artist lay bare his is arresting, disarming, haunting even.