Medium: oil on canvas board
Size: 16" x 20"
Year: 2002
Framed: unframed
"Bowling For Dismemberment" offers a captivating blend of the surreal and the ordinary, inviting viewers into a world where everyday objects take on new and unexpected meanings. This piece, with its vibrant blue background, captures attention immediately, drawing observers into its enigmatic narrative.
At the center of the composition stands a lone bowling pin, a symbol of leisure and recreation, yet surrounded by a disconcerting array of objects. A dismembered, armless, headless baby doll lies nearby, evoking feelings of unease and prompting contemplation on the fragility of innocence and the darker aspects of childhood. The juxtaposition of the doll against the bowling pin creates a tension between playfulness and disturbance, inviting viewers to delve deeper into the layers of meaning within the artwork.
Adjacent to the doll rests a mannequin arm, detached from its original form and positioned in a gesture that suggests both vulnerability and defiance. This fragment of a human figure serves as a reminder of the complexities of identity and the ways in which society constructs and deconstructs the human form.
Completing the scene is a phone receiver, its presence adding an element of communication and connection to the composition. However, the receiver is disconnected from its base, hinting at a breakdown in communication or a severed connection.
Markham's skillful use of oil paint brings these disparate elements together with a sense of harmony, despite their discordant nature. The rich textures and subtle tonal variations enhance the depth and complexity of the composition, inviting viewers to linger and explore each detail.
"Bowling For Dismemberment" is more than just a painting; it is a thought-provoking meditation on the fragility of human existence, the complexities of identity, and the interconnectedness of seemingly disparate elements. Its ability to evoke a range of emotions and stimulate intellectual inquiry makes it a valuable addition to any art collection. Whether displayed in a private home or a public gallery, this piece is sure to spark conversation and inspire contemplation for years to come.
