The painting exists as a spontaneous, personal reaction to the mystery of the COVID-19 pandemic.
It expresses the anxiety, fear, and wonder felt in the early days.
The central figure strides out of a blue sky into a mist-filled and dark world. He looks to the right drawn by the sound and movement of animals. To his left, Death peers mockingly, his interest piqued by the new mischief. Overconfidently, he pats the head of a young girl dressed as Dick Tracy. She is the scientist, already responding, shooting into the viral attack. Behind her stands her brother. He is hope, standing calmly and confidently, dressed in lion cub pajamas that melt into the vestment of the dying plague doctor. The virus rages from his breath. His partner mourns as his protective gear has failed. Above, Death’s assistant draws a pangolin and horse shoe bat out of the hat.
The title references the year but challenges the concept of learning from the past, and asks, how clear is our vision forward?
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Dr. James Stewart
Grosse Ile, Michigan
