So Wise So Young, They Say, Do Never Live Long 

Tania Rivilis created this striking image, "So Wise So Young, They Say, Do Never Live Long," using expressive brushstrokes and a keen eye for the emotional depths of her subjects. Born in 1986, Rivilis' work often explores the complexities of identity, particularly in the context of youth and vulnerability. Here, three young men are depicted with a raw honesty that challenges conventional masculine representation. The title, borrowed from a William Blake poem, poignantly speaks to the precariousness of youth, especially when coupled with wisdom and awareness. There is a sense of intimacy but also a guardedness in their gazes, reflecting the societal pressures and personal struggles faced by young men navigating their identities. Rivili’s art offers an empathetic lens through which to consider the emotional landscape of contemporary masculinity. Her work invites us to reflect on the vulnerabilities inherent in the journey of self-discovery.