This painting is inspired by my husband's childhood and conveys a profound story about work, balance and determination. A man, seen from behind, walks barefoot through a swampy landscape, carrying a wooden crossbar on his shoulders from which two heavy buckets are hung. His simple clothes and the damp and dramatic atmosphere of the landscape suggest a life full of hardship, but also perseverance.
The chromatics are balanced, with earth tones, burnt yellow and dark green for the rugged terrain, and the sky is painted with pastel shades of blue, gray and diffuse orange, creating a melancholic atmosphere. The rich texture of the brushwork, especially in the vegetal areas and clouds, adds an extra touch of expressiveness to the work.
The painting is a tribute to simple people who live their lives through work and sacrifice. During the creative process, I felt a deep connection with this story, with the idea of moving forward despite the difficulties. The fact that the man is painted from behind leaves room for interpretation—every viewer can find themselves in this silhouette, on their symbolic journey through life.