Deep set wrinkles are scored into a blood red mask that projects forward from the dark space. The nose is sharply cruel, and the mouth appears carved into an expression of anguished moan as it looks out past the veil or mirror. Herein lies the poignancy: there is no joy in this decision of being, because taking this step too far Because you’re worth it leads only to dismay and pain.

Alfie Rouy explores subtle ways of materialising the flow of versatile, fluid-like energies ranging from a romanticised and nostalgic view of the mystery of the Dark Ages combined with ancient Eastern philosophies and the Hermetica. His paintings are visualised by confined yet free-flowing forms through figurative imagery, with the intention to depict reality in an elusive and non-realistic way. He uses his subconscious as much as possible to create his own visual and alchemic symbolism without conscious decision.

Painted in smoothly applied acrylic, graphite is added to produce an enlivening sheen that draws the eye around the central mask motif.

Alfie Rouy (b. 1998, Sittingbourne, Kent, UK) graduated BA Painting University of the Arts Camberwell, London (2019-2021). His solo exhibitions include the Platform - Unit London (Online, 2021) and A Fingers Click of Time, The Artist Contemporary (Online, 2021). Selected group exhibitions include: Dark Roots, Liliya Art Gallery, London (2022); Wish Lush, Kravitz Contemporary, London (2022); A Short While After, Changing Room Gallery, London (2022); Front Room Show II,

D-Contemporary, London 2022; Love is the Devil, Marlborough Gallery, London (2022); The Reality in Whych you Create, Studio West, London (2022); Port of Call, Changing Room Gallery, London (2021); Tree and Leaf, Hannah Barry Gallery, London (2021); Hopscotch, Safehouse One, London (2021) and Caught in the Cave, Kupfer Projects 213, London (2021).