Back Portrait With A Tree

My work "Back Portrait With A Tree" is a feminine take of René Magritte's “The Man with the Aimless Face” (from Selected Writings), inspired by the quote: "Everyone looks like him, but he has his eyes open. He is the master of memories, he clarifies the appearance of things. His dream is infallible."

This piece reimagines Magritte’s themes through a feminine lens, blending mystery and introspection. The woman, seen from behind in a black top hat, channels the same enigmatic qualities as Magritte’s figures, embodying the delicate interplay of memory and dreams. Through her translucent body, a meadow with a single tree and red poppies appears—symbols of memories and fleeting dreams. The tree stands tall as the "master of memories" anchoring the work in reflection, while the red poppies represent the fragility of dreams.

Created as a photographic surrealistic collage, I’m adding warmth and introspection to the surrealist language, inviting viewers to reflect on how memories and dreams weave into both our inner and outer worlds. Just as Magritte’s figure brings clarity to reality, this woman embodies her own quiet power, guiding herself through the dreamscape of her life’s experiences. Her strength is subtle yet profound, allowing her to move through memories with grace and contemplation, blending the mystery of the past with the vividness of personal reflection.

P.S. This piece, created in 2022, was inspired by René Magritte's “Selected Writings.” The inspiration was further fueled by visiting the ‘IMAGINE! 100 Years of International Surrealism’ and ‘Histoire de ne pas rire’ exhibitions at Bozar in Brussels in 2024, which celebrate a century of Surrealism.

The 'Back Portrait' Series was born out of my personal struggle with an aching back and the quirky notion that by creating multiple back portraits, I might metaphorically exorcise my pain.