This painting draws inspiration from a photograph of my sister with an elderly woman who believed she was an angel. The artwork explores themes of innocence, perception, and the deep human need for connection and belief.
In our southern Italian village, my sister's blue eyes and blonde hair were rare, evoking the imagery of angels depicted in local church paintings. This physical appearance led an isolated elderly woman to see my sister as a divine presence, reflecting her longing for purity and comfort in a world that had left her lonely. The woman, devoid of family and companionship, projected her hopes and fears onto my sister, creating a unique and poignant bond between them.
The painting captures the tension between innocence and fear, showcasing how deeply entrenched cultural symbols and personal beliefs can shape relationships. The elderly woman's life, marked by solitude and her devotion to a crucifix, contrasts sharply with my sister's youthful innocence, highlighting the intersection of old traditions and youthful naivety.
In a contemporary context, this artwork speaks to the broader theme of how society constructs and deconstructs identity based on appearance and cultural symbolism. It reflects on how loneliness can drive individuals to find solace in unlikely places, and how the human spirit clings to familiar symbols of hope and purity amidst changing times.
The amulet motif in the painting symbolizes protection and the enduring power of cultural beliefs, serving as a bridge between the past and the present. It underscores the universal quest for security and meaning in a world where traditional connections are increasingly fragmented.
Through this artwork, I invite viewers to contemplate the ways in which cultural heritage, personal perception, and the need for connection shape our interactions and understanding of each other. It’s a reflection on the persistence of memory, the impact of cultural narratives, and the timeless human desire for belonging and reassurance.
An older woman from the village
she fell in love with my sister
because she u
she's an angel
with her innocent blue eyes
and her Candy white blond hair
my sister was afraid
my sister was afraid
my sister was afraid of her
The old lady has no men, no women, and no kids and no cats
but she has a perfect friend
And even if he cant’t hug her
because of his nailed hands to the cross
She still tells all the secrets she has
She blindly trusts him
because he'll never leave her alone
Amulet, amulet
A-A-A-A-A-A
Amulet, amulet
A-A-A-A-A-A
Amo lei
