The decision to create this piece in colored pencils was deliberate. I had never before attempted a piece of this size or level of intricacy using only this medium. However, I saw the potential for the slow, meditative nature of colored pencils to parallel the process of capturing the old man’s emotions. The challenge lay in the folds of his crimson robes, which required a meticulous attention to detail and an understanding of how light plays on fabric; it was a first for me. The drapery symbolized not only the weight of the physical world but also the heaviness of the emotional and psychological burdens he carries.

One of my primary goals was to perfect the expression in his eyes—the center of the piece. His gaze reflects a deep, personal sorrow and a helplessness that goes beyond individual suffering; it speaks to a universal despair, heightened by the bloodshed and violence happening around the world, particularly right now. His pensive posture, though an act of faith or hope, contrasts with the look of hopelessness in his eyes. It is a silent plea, knowing that despite prayers, the crimson of bloodshed, violence, and death continues to stain our world.

Historically, the image references the tradition of depicting figures in prayer or contemplation, much like the saints and sages seen in Renaissance paintings or ancient manuscripts. The stance of the man recalls figures of wisdom, who are often positioned as witnesses to human suffering and advocates for peace.

This piece is representative of my artistic practice in several ways. First, it reflects my commitment to using art as a means of engaging with contemporary issues, especially those involving human suffering and conflict. It also shows my dedication to the technical aspects of my craft—using colored pencils to create layers of meaning through meticulous detail. Lastly, it encapsulates my desire to capture complex emotions, particularly the tension between hope and despair that many people feel in response to the world’s ongoing crises.

Ultimately, this work is a meditation on helplessness, not just as a personal feeling but as a shared human condition. The old man’s expression mirrors the collective exhaustion of a world ravaged by violence, disease, and inequality. Through this piece, I aim to convey that feeling of quiet desperation, while also highlighting the resilience and reflection that can emerge in the face of such challenges..