JOANNA APLIN

HER ACHILLES’ HEEL

2021
Mix Media on Birch Panel
18.5" x 22.5"
2021 Mix Media on Birch Panel 18.5" x 22.5"
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A popular story in Greek mythology is the one of Achilles. The Fates knew he was not fully immortal, so they gave Achilles two paths of life to choose from: a long life of anonymity or die young and be remembered forever. He chose the latter. This gives great insight into the human condition. We all want to be remembered. It is deeply rooted in our core being. It's with this perspective you are to view this artwork. The female is looking off into the distance, maybe her mind is full of memorable accomplishments, maybe her body has bore many children, maybe her strong sturdy legs and broad shoulders have carried much burden and labored many tasks. Yet the viewer’s eye lands on her exposed heel. She’s vulnerable. Her weakness is the same as Achilles'. This is her response … to abide. That is true victory. “He must increase, but I must decrease”. John 3:30
Figurative painting of a seated figure curled inward, depicted in dark tones of charcoal and grey with flashes of red and gold, set against a textured muted background, displayed in a gold float frame, by Joanna Aplin, Canadian figurative artist based in Owen Sound Ontario.