The Liminal Space (Between Death and Birth), McLean Fletcher, 2024, acrylic on canvas, 60 x 90 cm. / 23.6 x 35.4 in.

Confronting the Self: The Art of McLean Fletcher

Featured image: The Liminal Space (Between Death and Birth), McLean Fletcher, 2024, acrylic on canvas, 60 x 90 cm. / 23.6 x 35.4 in.

McLean Fletcher's artwork compellingly explores themes of personal growth, existential challenges, and the psychological processes underlying human emotions.

McLean Fletcher is an artist known for her emotive acrylic paintings that explore deep themes of personal transformation, confronting inner demons, and the beauty of evolving self-identity.

Her powerful pieces, such as "Ego Death," "Exorcism of Doubt," and "Becoming," use acrylic on canvas to depict vivid, often stark metaphors of the self's evolution and confrontation with internal conflicts. Each work is a visual representation of the hero's journey through the darker and brighter aspects of self-discovery and change.

Explore our curated selection of contemporary artists from around the globe.

Naturalist Gallery offers artist representation internationally. Apply your art.

'Ego Death' by McLean Fletcher (2021)

Ego Death, McLean Fletcher, 2021, acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

Ego Death, McLean Fletcher, 2021, acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

"Ego Death" is a striking portrayal of personal transformation depicted through the allegory of a heroine who must metaphorically kill her own ego to ascend further. This 20 x 20 inch canvas is both a literal and symbolic depiction of climbing and overcoming, where the act of cutting one's head signifies the painful yet necessary release from egoic constraints. The background ladder hints at the subsequent journey ahead, reinforcing the theme of continual growth and rebirth.

'Exorcism of Doubt' by McLean Fletcher

Exorcism of Doubt, McLean Fletcher, 2019, acrylic & oil on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

Exorcism of Doubt, McLean Fletcher, 2019, acrylic & oil on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

In "Exorcism of Doubt," Fletcher dives into the tumultuous experience of purging fear and doubt, visually represented by black tar expelled from a woman’s mouth against a backdrop of soft yellow and periwinkle. This 20 x 20 inch painting captures a moment of catharsis and liberation, suggesting that even in the darkest expressions of our fears, there remains a possibility of beauty and renewal. The contrast in colors enhances the emotional depth, offering a hopeful perspective on overcoming personal demons.

'Becoming' by McLean Fletcher (2022)

Becoming, McLean Fletcher, 2022, acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

Becoming, McLean Fletcher, 2022, acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

"Becoming" explores the concept of necessary endings and new beginnings in the cycle of growth. This artwork, measuring 20 x 20 inches, depicts the violent yet beautiful evolution of self, where death and rebirth are portrayed as equally essential elements. The backdrop of softly painted flowers contrasts sharply with the foreground's tumult, symbolizing how transformation, though often painful, yields fruitful outcomes. This piece poignantly captures the essence of change as both an end and a beginning.

McLean Fletcher’s artworks are profound narratives of self-exploration and metamorphosis, each painting a chapter in the larger story of human resilience and adaptability. Through "Ego Death," "Exorcism of Doubt," and "Becoming," Fletcher not only showcases her mastery of visual expression but also her deep understanding of the psychological landscapes that define our existence. Her work invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys through the lenses of struggle and triumph, darkness and light.

Learn more About Naturalist Gallery of Contemporary Art.

Th'inconstant Moon, McLean Fletcher, 2021, acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

Th'inconstant Moon, McLean Fletcher, 2021, acrylic on canvas, 20 x 20 in. / 50.8 x 50.8 cm.

You may also find the following articles helpful:

The 14 Essential Artists of Impressionism

Expressionism: 20 Iconic Paintings & Their Artists

Renaissance Art: Origins, Influences, and Key Figures

Classical Art Movement: Exploring the History, Artists, and Artworks

Figurative Art: Understanding, Collecting, and Appreciating the Style

Daily Routines of Famous Artists: Learn from the Masters

Top 12 Controversial Artworks That Changed Art History

Tracing the History of Humans and Art

12 Central Fine Art Movements

Back to Journal

Leave a comment