Border Crossing 2021

Curator: Adam Caldwell created "Border Crossing" in 2021. We're looking at an oil painting that very clearly reflects contemporary concerns around political polarisation and, I guess, a global pandemic. What are your immediate impressions? Editor: Honestly, it’s a chaotic snapshot, like a nightmare distilled into paint. The colors are saturated, the figures caught in a desperate flight, and the space itself feels oppressive. There’s almost a comical juxtaposition of dark realities played out in bright daylight. Curator: Right, let’s unpack the specifics. There's a family seemingly fleeing a space littered with torn Trump signs, and lurking in doorways are cartoon figures reminiscent of a disturbingly sinister Mickey Mouse. There is an obvious statement regarding the divisiveness caused by this political movement. Considering Caldwell’s other work, it aligns with his broader social critique through symbolism. Editor: The figures are what pull me in. They feel… raw. Not just physically but emotionally exposed, like their every instinct is screaming danger. I find myself connecting deeply with this fear even when I don't connect with everything it symbolizes. Curator: Interesting, yes—the choice of a familiar "Frozen" t-shirt on one of the fleeing figures provides further evidence for contemporary commentary. And if you look closely at the family unit—there are figures wearing masks which point further towards anxieties relating to public health... Editor: See, to me it feels so familiar. Those Trump signs underfoot. The sense of impending doom made comical with cartoon figures lurking, its oddly beautiful as well. It transcends pure polemic; there’s a tenderness towards those caught in its undertow. A raw sense of urgency to get the hell out, fast. Curator: Indeed. Caldwell manipulates familiar imagery and techniques to evoke a sense of unease about where society is going. There’s a narrative being built of where art can challenge ideologies and provoke discourse. What a powerful piece to consider. Editor: Precisely! And for me? It's also an incredibly haunting, visceral, and darkly comical reminder that in our chaotic world, it is okay to question everything we're taught.