Pit of Snakes

Pit of Snakes is a depiction of a glorious architectural monument that has begun a process of decay. Around the base of the structure a writhing mass of organic matter, suggestive of trees or a vines, begins to dominate the structure. This writhing mass is created from abstract shapes, the paint is taking over the painting, or the illusion is being swamped by the material that has been used to create it. The title, Pit of Snakes, suggests the mass of paint is more than just material, but points towards an spiritual tension to the painting - the age-old battle between heaven and hell, the 'snakes' throwing themselves against the illuminated fortress. The tension of the painting is between reality, truth, illusion and myth.