Past and Present 1990

Eileen Agar's print presents two figures, one rendered in warm oranges and browns, the other in cool blues, intertwined amidst floral motifs. The bird-like creatures remind me of ancient Egyptian art, where animals often symbolized human characteristics. These forms echo across time, appearing in various cultures as representations of metamorphosis, such as the mythical phoenix, and thus hinting at spiritual rebirth. The composition, with its contrasting figures and intertwining forms, evokes a sense of tension. It's a dance between opposing forces, embodying a psychological duality between the conscious and unconscious, the ego and the shadow. The continuous cycle of life, death, and rebirth embedded in these ancient symbols powerfully engages viewers, stirring something deep within the collective subconscious. The symbolic journey of transformation is a testament to our shared human experience.