Paul & Katy 

David Michael Bowers painted “Paul & Katy” using a muted color palette to create a dark and intimate scene reminiscent of old master paintings. Bowers employs a traditional style to frame a complex dynamic between a man and woman. The woman, Katy, sits in a relaxed pose, her gaze directed toward the viewer, while Paul stands behind her with his hands resting on her shoulders. The power dynamic is palpable. How does the gaze challenge traditional representations of women in art, where they are often passive objects? The setting is domestic, but there are hints of unease, like the darkened fireplace, which suggests the absence of warmth. The artist captures a moment of shared intimacy, but the subtle tensions in their body language and expressions hint at deeper, unspoken emotions. The ambiguity invites viewers to project their own experiences and interpretations onto the scene, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally charged work.