Tenderness Under a Scale by Karina Brouwer

About "Tenderness Under a Scale"

by Karina Brouwer

About the artwork

This image evokes a sense of mysticism and intrigue. It is a close-up of a face, with the skin covered in a layer of dark paint or make-up, creating a deep, almost impenetrable shadow. This dark colour contrasts sharply with the light, scaly texture enveloping the face, reminiscent of the scales of a reptile or mythological creature.

The only visible part of the skin is around the eye, which appears intense and vivid, as if perceiving a hidden world. This contrast between the dark and the light, between the hidden and the visible, evokes a sense of duality. It is as if there is a deeper meaning or secret hidden behind this layered appearance.

The scales appear as if they form a protective layer, a kind of armour that shields the person from the outside world. This may symbolise that the person is protecting themselves from emotions, feelings or outside influences. However, the eye, seen as a window to the soul, remains open and vulnerable, indicating that there is still a connection to the world, despite the protective layer.

This image evokes a sense of excitement and curiosity. It is as if you are invited to dig deeper, to discover what lies behind this mysterious apparition. It is an image that won't let you go, prompting you to ponder the deeper meaning of identity, protection and the hidden self.

Conceived by Karina Brouwer, visualized with AI.