This piece was the first in a series of creations dedicated to generating a conversation between Demetrius's real world and his created worlds. At the time of creating these pieces, Demetrius felt that he lived in a world lacking vibrance. Whether due to emotional dilemmas or physical need, the world that he felt was presented to the average person on any given day was one lacking in fervor.
The man in this photo exists behind a sort of screen. This black screen represents the barrier between the world that we exist in, and the worlds that people create. When people exist on reality's side of this barrier, they exist only in black and white.
When they cross the barrier, they see themselves in new, bright, vibrant colors.
Breakthrough
Charcoal and Pastel
Passage
Charcoal and Pastel
In this piece, the work became more about understanding the process of that transition, and the inherent effects it would have on those going through it. Demetrius placed himself into the piece as the subject, and immersed large portions of his body into the unknown.
One of his favorites in the series, this piece illustrates the dynamic relationship that is created between the identified self and the unknown self. She reaches for the viewer, looking and gesturing as though there is something beyond them, and beyond her. A fact that could only be realized by one who is in this transitionary state.
She wants to be in this new world.
Foresight
Acrylic Paint
Emerging
Acrylic Paint
This transition must be an active decision. It is not something that comes due to mistake or lack of intention.
She drags herself from her past, pushing the barrier away from her body.
Life, New
Acrylic Paint
Those who manage to find this new state of enlightenment are surrounded in emotion. They exist on a plane beyond those who cannot empathize with them. But what happens when they are joined in this new world. Is one's reality a shared space?
Are we unbothered in our worlds of vibrant fantasy, or are we only more vulnerable in this new setting?
These are questions Demetrius would like you to consider.
