“C’s Big Night Out”

Acrylic and UV Pigment on Canvas. 500×500.

Sorry peeps, this one is an “in-joke”. Sorry, C – thanks for seeing the humour and not being offended. Just don’t let me do your hair and make-up should you and E decide to go Rocky Horror-ing. When I finished the mouth, I appear to have given him a look of disgust. Who can blame him?!

I would like the viewer to consider the duality of Mental Ill Health whilst viewing. Persons with Mental Ill Health often express one emotion, whilst feeling another entirely inside. During the creation process, I intended to show the contrast between what is shown outwardly, and what is being felt internally. In the painting, to begin with, C is outwardly happy. We assume that everything is OK. It’s only when you see the full picture, we can see that things are far from what they seem. Inside, they are anything but happy. When the lights go out, consider the burning thoughts and feelings that may be chewing a person up. All while they smile, and respond to “How are you?” with “I’m good, thanks.” Note: C is one of the happiest people I know!

I started painting again as part of my own Mental Health, as a way to express emotions that and impossible to verbalise, and brutal in written form. I’ve not discussed my reasons very much, and I’ve spent 75% of my life dealing with “issues” of various kinds. Since the birth of the Glasgow Unicorn, 8 days ago, I have created a piece a day which explores or encapsulates my various stages of mental orientation. Either in the “Then and Now”, or relating long-standing feelings. As with most things, I like to try to have some fun along the way. Sadly, my sense of humour is somewhat darker than “Mars Black” at times.

If this piece has made you giggle, or you would like to help change the narrative about Mental Ill Health, please consider making a donation to the Mental Health Foundation. If you prefer to remain anonymous, feel free to make the donation on behalf of Glasgow Unicorn, or in memory of Alexander.