Spotlight Artist

Adrian Waggoner

Midwest
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A Portrait from Before the World Ended

Woman in a yellow bikini adjusts sunglasses, standing before a teal wall with stained glass.

oil on canvas

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Woman in a yellow bikini adjusts sunglasses, standing before a teal wall with stained glass.
Subscriber accessSubscribe to gain full access to all artworksSubscribe
Woman in a yellow bikini adjusts sunglasses, standing before a teal wall with stained glass.
Featured in New American Paintings1 / 3

Artist Statement

 These selected works are commentary on the problems of religious philosophies and their effect on an individual’s concept of self-identity. The paintings stem from personal experiences from my own life and the lives of others. The struggle of seeking validation from the people closest to me, and becoming open with my choice to turn away from their traditions, has created images I don’t fully understand but continue to create in search of resolve. The paintings focus on the resulting crisis of logic and reason no longer supporting faith, and the process of rebuilding one’s identity. By using iconic religious symbols with modern figures, the paintings seem to pose more questions than answers, but suggest the permanent effects of a religious upbringing.

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