Balancing Chaos | "Fly on the Wall"

Balancing Chaos | "Fly on the Wall" is a self-portrait that delves into the complex themes of observation, detachment, and the unsettling truths we sometimes uncover. The fly serves as a powerful symbol for the unseen observer, a figure who quietly witnesses life’s unfolding drama from the sidelines, yet is never fully engaged. The subject’s own journey mirrors this sense of separation, balancing the tension between being part of the world and remaining distant, detached, and introspective.

This internal struggle, fueled by the harsh truths that often arise from awareness and deeper insight, brings to light the concept of detachment inherent in Shamanism. In the Shamanic tradition, the ability to listen and see beyond the surface is a key role of the seer, and this self-portrait reflects that complex relationship between knowing and withdrawing.

The 12x16 black wood frame complements the piece’s introspective theme, adding a sense of grounding and elegance. While the fly begins as an unnoticed presence, its quiet observation ultimately makes it visible—inviting the viewer to contemplate its inevitable fate of being swatted. This juxtaposition of invisibility and awareness adds another layer to the narrative, asking us to consider how our own roles as observers in life can shift, sometimes leading to uncomfortable truths. The Shaman knows, but the wisdom is not readily accepted and is denied.

• Made with recycled materials.

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