Art as Identity: The Works of Catherine Carstens

Featured image: Olympia, Catherine Carstens, 2022, oil on canvas, 36 x 48 in. / 91.44 x 121.92 cm.

Catherine Carstens' oil paintings are profound explorations of identity, symbolism, and perception.

Catherine Carstens is an artist renowned for her thoughtful exploration of identity and symbolism through oil painting. Her work challenges conventional perceptions of self and others, using powerful imagery to explore themes of divinity, objectification, and societal roles.

In her series including "I Am a Deity 1," "I Am a Symbol," and "I Am An Object," Carstens delves into the layers of meaning associated with the depiction of the self and other figures, challenging viewers to contemplate the deeper narratives behind visual representations. Her work utilizes strong imagery and vibrant contrasts to emphasize themes of individuality and objectification.

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I Am a Deity 1 (2023):

This painting features a striking representation of a figure styled as a deity, where Carstens uses golden hues and bold textural contrasts to elevate the subject beyond mere portraiture. The use of light and shadow not only highlights the spiritual and divine qualities attributed to the figure but also suggests a deeper introspection about the nature of reverence and idolatry in human culture.

I Am a Symbol (2023):

In "I Am a Symbol," Carstens presents a subject that encapsulates various cultural and historical references, imbuing it with a universal significance that transcends personal identity. This work challenges the viewer to decipher the layers of meaning in symbols and their impact on individual identity. The detailed execution and thoughtful composition invite engagement with the complex interplay between symbol and self.

I Am An Object (2023):

This painting critiques the objectification inherent in viewing figures as mere objects of aesthetic or utilitarian value. Carstens portrays the figure with a nuanced complexity, using color and form to question how identities are often reduced to simplistic or utilitarian categories in societal contexts. The artwork serves as a powerful commentary on the depersonalization that can occur in visual and social cultures.

Catherine Carstens’ artworks are compelling invitations to reflect on the constructs of identity and perception. Through her masterful use of oil paint, she articulates a powerful visual language that navigates the realms of the sacred, the symbolic, and the everyday. Carstens’ paintings are not only visually arresting but also rich in thematic depth, offering a poignant critique of how we see and understand ourselves and others in a complex social landscape.

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