Continuing an exploration of light and its symbolic and metaphorical meaning, this piece considers the idea of our own personal light.

A now-common cliché, our ‘inner light’ has become the subject of countless motivational speeches and platitudes. But why are we so consistently drawn to the idea that a human has light within them? What does it mean for someone to ‘light up a room’ or, conversely, to ‘have their light dimmed’?

This light seems precious and worth protecting, as the figure communicates through her arching pose. The light radiates from the centre of the painting. Without it, the figure might be consumed by the surrounding darkness.

Light represents life, truth, vitality and clarity. Its absence might symbolise death, lies, absence and concealment.

Perhaps a parallel can be drawn between light and the soul.

Oil on canvas. 
60.5cm x 76cm
Shipped rolled or local pickup framed.