A warm bed is something most of us take for granted, and in this man's case, a subway or sewer vent is the best he can do. I borrowed from three different photographs to create this painting for Adebanji Alade whose moleskin theme was poverty and homelessness. In Canada we know that over a million people can afford either food or shelter, but not both. Scary numbers in a country with a population around 35 million. This group does not include all of the homeless, whose profile is quickly changing to include women and children. They represent the fastest growing subgroup followed by youth.
Oil on paper
9" x 7"
NFS
What a touching and beautiful painting this is Vern, even on a topic so grim. It really touches my heart, and I feel it is one of your best ever works of art.
ReplyDeleteWow Vern! A powerful yet sensitive portrayal of a concern and issue for so many communities. The way you painted this is magnificent. It really draws a person in and pounds the issue home.
ReplyDeleteExcellent work, Vern. You captured the way life seems to rush by oblivious to the plight of so many. A sad scene that's too universal in urban areas. Very sensitively composed, and beautifully painted.
ReplyDeleteHow well this piece is to remind us of the conditions of our society even here in the wealthiest continent there is. Thank you for having the sensitivity to make such a powerful piece.
ReplyDeleteThis is a sensitive and powerful piece Vern...it's really well done on every level.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the two predominant words in these comments...Powerful and Sensitive.
ReplyDeleteThe plight of the poor and homeless is too often overlooked out of a feeling of guilt and helplessness on the part of the public.
Art like this serves a high purpose.
Great painting, Vern!
Wonderful job, Vern. A very sensitive treatment. Great job with the cityscape.
ReplyDeleteGreat touching piece Vern And thanks for the insight into the situation in Canada!
ReplyDeleteAh Vern, you always cut to the chase and give us more than a painting. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteIt might be more appropriate to wait for a sunny subject to do this, but I have given you the Sunshine Award, and I wanted to let you know. Details are on my blog.
An amazing painting of a side of life that is with us every minute. Well done on highlighting it and drawing our attention to it.
ReplyDeleteGreat painting, Vern! You captured this sad situation very well.
ReplyDeleteI had never seen a homeless person until I moved to Tokyo to go to college. It was surprising to see people sleeping in subway stations, but more surprising was that people were able to totally ignore these poor homeless people in crowded stations. It is a sad situation that has not improved or even been getting worse each year.