Vivian (2024)

Vivian is a name of Latin origin. It means «alive» or «lively.» It is derived from the Latin word «vivus,» which also means «alive.»

The expression «death by a thousand cuts» is sometimes used in psychological literature to describe the many small, emotional blows we take in a lifetime

Lingchi (IPA: [lǐŋ.ʈʂʰɨ̌], Chinese: 凌遲), usually translated «slow slicing» or «death by a thousand cuts», was a form of torture and execution used in China from around the 10th century until the early 20th century. It was also used in Vietnam and Korea. In this form of execution, a knife was used to methodically remove portions of the body over an extended period of time, eventually resulting in death.

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It can be hard sometimes to explain why a seemingly small event or comment can create what to others might look like a disproportionately strong emotional reaction in us.

I started to work on Vivian after being tone-policed by yet another man, and I was just done with it.

I feel bad about making a fuss about these things.

Or, I’m made to feel bad about making a fuss about these things.

In my sketch for this painting I included the entire phrase, «death by a thousand cuts», because that’s how it can feel to be a woman.

But during the time I’ve worked on it, I’ve also experienced a sort of life after death, so I painted over the word «death», to make room for this ambiguity.

Vivian
2024
Charcoal, acrylic paint and foil on canvas
120 x 100 cm

36 000,-
(+ shipping costs)

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