The Raft

The Raft

The Raft is based on the ongoing migrant/shipwreck crisis, and is reminiscent of the painting titled “Le Radeau de la Méduse” by Theodore Géricault. The preparatory image is the result of a meticulous photo-montage consisting of numerous reportage images, and aims to evoke the narrative power of the historical/classical painting. After evaluating the most appropriate technique for communicating these subjects today, I opted for a painting style which reflects the typical halftone process used in newspaper printing. I wanted the painting to appear objective, and this technique, which could be defined as "scientific," is capable of achieving this result. Despite this, the canvas is painted point-by-point, in a single colour: ultramarine blue. Its dimensions (2.80 x 2 m) require time, space, and observation on the part of the observer.No image or shape is discernible from a short distance but as you move away the subject slowly appears, and certain details can be made out.