The Tin-Man

Acrylic on canvas

Size 29.7 x 42cm

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My entire life I have suffered from heart disease so when I decided to design this painting, I wanted to portray the struggle I have had living with heart disease. I wanted to create a piece of art that would make people ask questions around my style and the hidden story. My heart has simply ruled my head for as long as I can remember, I was the little boy whose mother literally wrapped up in cotton wool with the constant fear of the unknown. My life as a Man, husband and father has been defined by my condition. Family days out or going on holiday must be carefully planned from parking, travelling and the environment. I decided to use the image as a reflection of my condition to encourage people to ask questions understand why as an artist, I have chosen to make this design.

 

The Wizard: [To the Tin Man] As for you, my galvanized friend - you want a heart! You don't know how lucky you are not to have one. Hearts will never be practical until they can be made unbreakable.

 

The Tin Man: But I-- I still want one.

 

The Wizard: I take pleasure at this time in presenting you with a small token of our esteem and affection. And remember, my sentimental friend, that a heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others.

 

Tin Man: Look, it ticks!

 

Artist: [To the Tin Man] My heart is broken but at least I have one as well.