Artist Statement
Animalistic Nature
Animalistic Nature is a series focusing on the classical four elements: fire, water, earth, and air. These elements are personified with animalistic attributes to take form as anthropomorphic characterization. In this series, I play on the literal meaning of the word “nature” to describe a visual attribute for each element; fire implies flames, water implies bubbles, earth implies plants, and air implies clouds. I also envision the animalistic “nature” which lies within each element; fire representing a dragon, water representing a fish, earth representing a deer, and air representing a griffin.
As a visual development artist, I want to use character development to bring the infamous four elements to life as human beings. The overarching theme is equilibrium: the dynamic duality and balance between the relationship with one’s true self as human form and with one’s inner animal instincts.
This series shows that everyone has two sides in constant battle against each other. These four images show the struggles between these two opposing parts, breaking free, and harmonizing into one being. Therefore, rather than showing the human and animal as separate entities, the characterized elements are merged with their animalistic nature to become one.
Animalistic Nature is a digital painting series created in Adobe Photoshop using detailed line work, carefully chosen color themes to match each element, and dynamic gesture to truly represent each element’s unique characteristics.
I hope these four illustrations will allow viewers to reflect upon their own lives, inner self, and inner struggles to find a harmonious equilibrium and relationship for the true self to genuinely shine.