Violinist

This drawing in charcoal, ink, oil pastel, and pencil is based on Beethoven's Third Symphony. The piece shows a violinist in darkness but within the black is a sheen of beauty reflecting the musical performance. At the time of writing music for this symphony, Beethoven was informed that he was losing his hearing and the loss would be permanent and incurable. The piece is a prism from which to portray the raw emotions of pain, struggle, and triumph. The artist has a chronic illness and Beethoven's story resonated deeply. Motivated by storytelling and using character as a tool, the work invites viewers to connect with the challenges of another human, fostering empathy. Although we are all travelling different paths, we share struggles and challenges and the piece aims to transcend the individual to resonate with a wider audience. In the hands of the artist, life's challenges, emotions and triumphs become an expression of the universal human experience and the connection created from embracing our shared vulnerabilities.