This next series of works concentrates on the very serious and important subject of mental health. These paintings were started before the global pandemic that is COVID-19, which further pushes the need for our understanding and demands that we reach out to support those that are even more at risk of further suffering from poor mental health during these difficult times.

Inspired by and a reflection on psychology and the works of Carl Jung – the works stress the importance of self-actualization in the pursuit of strong mental health. One of the key concepts that Jung proposed was that of the persona – “a kind of mask, designed on the one hand to make a definite impression upon others, and on the other to conceal the true nature of the individual” (Carl Jung). The central figure in these paintings is the masked individual and an expression of what that journey looks like – moving from the persona towards self-actualization

“My hope is that these works resonate with the viewer’s own journey – that it provokes thought, conversation and ultimately a better understanding of ourselves leading to greater empathy for others who struggle with their own cognitive, behavioural and emotional well-being.”
-Clem