James Hurley - The Book of Truths (the Art of Emotions)

THE BOOK OF

May 2024

UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTHS

Showcasing

Wall Art and prints embedded with emotions, feelings and frank thought provoking truths

https://www.mycreativeimages.com/

CONTENTS ARTICLES

LIMITED EDITION ART

POSTER ART

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INTRODUCTION

UNREASONABLE EXPECTATIONS

A DANCE OF CHAOS

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A VOYAGE OF SELF-DISCOVERY

BREAKING FREE

ALONE I'M FREE

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DARKNESS ON THE FELLS

FIND INNER PEACE

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CAST YOUR SPELL

WHATS HAPPENING TO ME?

AND UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTHS

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Creative Talents

EXHIBITION HISTORY

6 THOUGHTS FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS - WHAT ARE THEY ARE WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT TO MY ART?

23 WHATS LEFT?

27 UNSEEN DAMAGE

All images in this publication are sourced / owned / created by the creators featured, unless otherwise stated on their websites or social media pages and as such must not be copied or sold without the express consent of the artist.

This publication is created and owned by James Hurley, ©mycreativeimages.com 2024. Please feel free to share the magazine but do not make changes to any of the content.

The text in this magazine was created with the assistance of ChatGPT. The links to websites may contain affiliate ID information as purchasing items using these links may result in a small commission being paid to the publisher of this magazine.

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INTRODUCTION Welcome to "Uncomfortable Truths," a unique journey through the corridors of art and the unspoken narratives that reside within.

This booklet is a way of showing you my artwork and the connection between the various collections. However, its more than just me promoting my artworks; it is a window into the soul of each creation, revealing the stories and emotions that are intricately woven into every piece.

In these pages, you will encounter art that does more than just catch the eye – it challenges the mind and stirs the heart. Each artwork presented here is born from a moment of truth, an experience, or a realization that may not always be easy to confront but is essential to our collective human experience. These truths, though uncomfortable, are the silent pulses of our existence, shaping our perception of the world and of ourselves.

"Uncomfortable Truths" is an endeavour to transcend the traditional boundaries of art and show you the interconnectedness of thoughts and emotions actions and nature through the following collections: "Thoughts and Emotions", "Cherry Natural Beauty", "Nurtured by Nature" and the "This is Me" range of poster art.

It's about igniting curiosity, fostering a deeper understanding, and perhaps most importantly, creating a connection that goes beyond the visual aspect. The artworks showcased here are a testament to the power of art in conveying complex, often unarticulated aspects of our lives. At time you may feel that one story conflicts with the next, that is deliberate, as many thoughts clash and create turmoil and uncertainty. As you explore these pages, may you find reflections of your own truths and feel the resonating impact of each story. And should these pieces speak to you in a language that only your heart understands, you may find yourself drawn to bring a part of this journey into your own space.

Let us embark on this exploration of "Uncomfortable Truths" together, and discover the profound beauty that lies within the depths of honest expression.

James Hurley Editor & Artist

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Creative Talents

As you turn each page, I invite you to delve into the narratives behind the art. These stories are not just my own; they are echoes of universal experiences, reflections of the joy, pain, love, and loss that each of us encounters. The purpose of this journey is not to persuade you to purchase a piece of art, but to invite you into a conversation - a dialogue between the artwork and your own experiences.

A VOYAGE OF SELF-DISCOVERY AND UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTHS In James Hurley's artistic universe, creativity intertwines with emotions, creating a sanctuary where every digital canvas resonates with the depth of the human experience. His art is not just visual; it's an emotional odyssey, inviting you to explore, feel, and connect on a profound level.

Embrace the story within each canvas. Let James's art be your guide in a journey of authenticity, self-discovery, and emotional depth. Hang your emotions on the wall and let his art be your companion in this profound exploration of "Uncomfortable Truths".

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James combines technical mastery with a heartfelt narrative in each piece. His art, brimming with color, texture, and emotion, is a diary of his life experiences, echoing the ebb and flow of our own emotional journeys.

Every brush stroke of James's art tells a personal story, transforming vulnerability into a powerful artistic expression. His works are chapters of his life, inviting you into a world where emotions shape the canvas, urging introspection and growth.

James's art isn't just an aesthetic addition to your space; it's an ally in your journey of self-discovery. It's an investment in personal growth and a reminder of our shared human experience.

"Unreasonable Expectations" - by James Hurley

Imagine "Unreasonable Expectations" hung on your wall as a visual anchor, inspiring authenticity and liberation from societal norms, or "Darkness on the Fells" celebrating both the beauty and danger of nature.

Each piece of James's art is a conversation starter, a mirror to your emotions, and a guide to self-exploration. In a fast-paced world, his art is a pause, a reflection, a connection to what makes us human.

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"Darkness on the Fells " - by James Hurley

EXHIBITION HISTORY James Hurley is an emerging artist that has spent many years creating art and taking photographs. Recently he has taken the step into the role of a full time self-employed digital artist. His most recent exhibitions include:

Nov 2023: The Old Lock up Gallery, Matlock.

LightSpaceTime online open.

Dec 2023: Holy Art Gallery, London ArtBase & Red Dot Miami (digital display) Jan 2024: Andakulova Gallery Dubai (digital display) Andie Art Gallery Athens (digital display) Casa Del Arte Palma (digital display) Holy Art, Athens digital gallery Feb 2024: Casa Del Arte Palma (digital display)

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Nicoleta Gallery Berlin (digital display) Thomson Gallery Switzerland (digital display) Mar 2024: Future Stars Holy Art Athens & London Casa Del Arte Palma (digital display) Nicoleta Gallery Berlin (digital display) Thomson Gallery Switzerland (digital display) Bill Board - New York Times Square Apr 2024: Leabrooks Art Complex (2 month solo) Artbox Expo – Venice (digital display) Andakulova Gallery Dubai (digital display) Thomson Gallery Switzerland (digital display) Nicoleta Gallery - Berlin (digital display) May 2024: Cipriate Venezia - Vencie (3 pieces digital display)

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THOUGHTS FEELINGS AND EMOTIONS - WHAT ARE THEY ARE WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT TO MY ART? Thoughts and emotions are fundamental aspects of the human experience, each playing a distinct role in how we perceive and interact with the world. Everybody will feel differently about things they encounter, and this is based on their life experiences and journey.

This text will provide you with insight into my thought processes so you can understand why I create art. These are some very basic definitions that I use when trying to understand my own challenging thoughts, emotions and feelings.

Creative Talents

Definition of Thoughts: Thoughts are often considered as idea-like, memory-like, picture-like, or song-like events in our minds. They are usually short-lived and discrete but can also be loud insisting and repeating loops.

Thoughts are still somewhat mysterious. They are certainly caused by brain function, but the exact mechanisms - whether it's the type of neurons, the way they fire, or specific network activations I don't know - as you can see I do not fully understand what a thought is as I'm an artist not a neuroscientist. But I do believe before a conscious thought emerges, that the unconscious mind plays a significant role.

Thoughts are often referred to as "mental representations," though this term can be tricky as some thoughts, like moods or the perception of certain sensations, don't necessarily involve "representing" something in a traditional sense.

Definition of Emotions: Emotions are brief mental states that arise from the mind's conscious interpretation of bodily sensations. These sensations occur automatically and unconsciously in response to stimuli, helping to regulate arousal, direct attention, and motivate behavior.

Emotions are typically reflected in posture and facial expressions (body language) and these are thought to function as a way of communication with others. Emotions often trigger a behavioral response. For example, the emotion of fear can stimulate a withdrawal response without conscious thought required, fight or flight.

Emotions are thought to originate in the amygdala, which codes the nature of incoming stimuli, and are processed and interpreted by the prefrontal cortex, which orchestrates a response.

The responses are generally classified as positive or negative, with positive emotions fostering a sense of expansion and psychological growth,

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and negative emotions creating discomfort to warn us of something important.

From the moment we come into this world our brain starts to process emotions and automatically programmes the brain to follow a set path or reaction whenever an emotion is triggered.

Image the power of someone that knows how to reprogram your emotional responses to specific situations. They generate situations and then take action to "train" you how you should feel and react. Think for a moment, have you encountered situations where you are being rewarded or punished for the way you react to something.

Do you have the ability to recognise this type of manipulation?

Differentiation - Feelings vs. Emotions: Despite being used interchangeably, emotions and feelings are different but connected phenomena. Emotions are real-time data sparked by sensations in the body, while feelings are influenced by emotions but are generated from our thoughts. Emotions are automatic, unconscious body reactions to stimuli, and feelings are the conscious, subjective mental interpretations of these physical changes.

Emotions are considered universal, experienced by all people in the same way, while feelings and the thoughts they generate can vary from person to person based on their life experiences and how they have been "trained" to react to specific stimulus.

Understanding the distinction between Emotions, Thoughts and Feelings has helped me to develop a deeper awareness of my actions and how they impact on others.

It has also allowed me to more easily identify when people are attempting to make me react in a specific way to an emotional stimulus they triggered because they want to control my feelings and subsequent actions.

This is the foundation for why I create my artwork. It helps me manage the huge range of emotions I experience and observe and allows me to express and expel the negatives and control my own thoughts, feelings and actions.

My art is a visual representation of emotions, thoughts and feelings and the impact they have on me and the people around me.

Creative Talents

Beneath the sharp edges of a crimson cage, A spirit writhes, silent on the cosmic stage.

Darkness gathers, smothering whispered pleas, In the void, a faint moon witnesses these.

Yet in the shadows, a fire yearns to breathe, Fighting for a freedom it can barely conceive.

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UNREASONABLE EXPECTATIONS A Call for Empathy and Autonomy Have you ever felt overwhelmed by someone else's demands, demands that eclipse your own needs? It seems everywhere we turn, we're told to give more, do more, be more, at the expense of our own peace and own needs.

These demands often escalate into commands or even threats, manifesting in both personal interactions and societal pressures. From simple ultimatums like "obey or face the consequences" to broader societal demands, the pattern is clear and pervasive.

My artwork challenges this norm, advocating for dialogue over demands, empathy over enforcement.

As seen in Time Square - March 23rd 2024

Elevate your space with the profound symbolism and transformative narrative of "Unreasonable Expectations." This captivating artwork resonates deeply with those who have experienced the weight of societal pressures

I invite you to consider your role in this and promote autonomy and mutual respect.

Let's envision a community where the only expectation is to treat each other with dignity and kindness. This doesn't mean that one of us is more important than the other, just that we are different. Let's change the narrative from coercion and conflict to understanding and acceptance. Lets blend together but retain and accept our differences without forcing others to follow our personal beliefs and practices.

There is no need to control or destroy each other to enable us to live a happy and fulfilling lives.

and manipulations. By gracing your walls with this piece, you not only add visual allure but also infuse your environment with a constant reminder of the importance of personal boundaries and authenticity. It's more than art – it's a catalyst for self-empowerment, fostering introspection and guiding you towards a life aligned with your aspirations.

Limited Edition framed Print Artwork 42cm x 30cm Frame 56.6cm x 44.5cm Visit the Shop

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Creative Talents

But why must coercion be our default? When did we accept that imposing our will through threats or manipulation was the only way to interact?

In the silence of conformity’s shade, Lies a whisper, a restless blade— Chains unseen bind dreams so tight, Dimming the fire that yearns for light.

Muffled voices, vibrant once, now soft, Echo in voids vast and oft.

Yet stir there does a pivotal force, A courage to veer off course.

Creativity, art and dance, symbols for the eager heart , To beat its rhythm, stark and true, Casting old scripts for visions anew.

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Not just to claim, but to profoundly declare Independence from the narratives we wear.

With this compass, bold steps we chart, Navigating the maps of our own heart.

Embrace each day, the renewal it brings, Delve deep into yourself and find the source From whence springs A river flowing fierce and free — Your life a transformative journey it is meant to be.

Listen to your muse, take in its call, An homage to the will that’s in us all.

Unfurl your wings, let your spirit soar high, Beyond horizons, across the vast, open sky.

Live your life in the way it was meant, explore the sensations, reveal in the chaos, Get lost in the passion, Shake off the restrictions and those that seek to constrain you.

Loose yourself in the dance of life. Live.

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In the tempest of her soul, she dances, Her face a canvas of mist and flame, Fragments of being scatter like ashes, Silhouettes of freedom too wild to tame.

Amidst the storm, a whisper of thought— A ballet of chaos, embracing the light.

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BREAKING FREE Have you ever encountered the invisible chains of constraint, the subtle yet profound forces that tether your spirit to the stillness of conformity? Imagine the sensation of being ensnared, a silent cry for progress that seems to echo without response. This feeling of being muffled, as if your voice, vibrant with ideas and passions, is somehow dimmed in the vast expanse of the world.

But there is a turning point, a moment of pivotal courage where you choose to cast aside the weight of expectation. It's an invitation to

This is about more than asserting individuality—it's a profound declaration of independence from the collective narrative that often dictates our course. With 'Breaking Free' as your compass, you are emboldened to navigate the uncharted territories of your truest intentions, to honour your unique narrative that is brimming with significance and embrace the wonders that life offers .

Embrace this artwork as you would a new dawn, a fresh perspective where your feelings and emotions are not just relevant—they are the cornerstone of a transformative journey. 'Breaking Free' is an homage to the indomitable will that resides within each of us, waiting for the moment to unfurl its wings and soar beyond the horizon of the expected.

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embrace the authenticity of your own journey, to release the shackles of prescribed paths and societal scripts. 'Breaking Free' is not just an artwork; it’s a symbol of such liberation.

It speaks to the heart that yearns to beat to its own rhythm and the mind that seeks to redefine relevance on its own terms.

As seen in Venice - May 2024

The emotional resonance of the piece is profound. It evokes a sense of resilience in the face of disintegration, a common human theme that may resonate deeply with viewers who have experienced personal metamorphosis. The artwork’s title, "Breaking Free," aptly encapsulates this sentiment, presenting an allegory of liberation that is both personal and universal.

Limited Edition framed Print Artwork 42cm x 30cm Frame 56.6cm x 44.5cm Visit the Shop

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Creative Talents

In the silence of my own cocoon, I dwell, Wrapped in veils, where my secrets swell.

Flames of passion, bursts of dread, Paint my skies in shades of red.

Through the storm inside, I see, A world where I alone am free

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Relationships: fuel our destiny, fuel our growth and bond our souls.

The beauty of human relationships lies in their power to heal, inspire, and create lasting memories.

Love isn't just a feeling—it's the foundation of true happiness and fulfillment. There's something incredibly powerful about sharing your life with someone who values your true self, understands your dreams, and stands by you, no matter what.

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Imagine a relationship where every conversation makes you feel heard, every gesture reinforces your value, and even small misunderstandings become opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. This isn’t just about staying together through ups and downs—it’s about growing together, respecting each other's individuality while building a shared future.

It’s about creating a bond where you can be utterly yourself, where your vulnerabilities are met with kindness, and your strengths are celebrated.

A relationship grounded in trust, commitment, and unconditional love is a journey that transforms us, making us better, happier people.

Let's cherish these bonds that push us to be better and love without limits.

Here’s to growing in love every day!

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Darkness on the Fells Unveiling "Darkness on the Fells," an enthralling limited edition artwork, where the mythic intertwines with the elemental forces of nature. Here, a figure both formidable and enchanting rises from the molten heart of the earth, her wings outspread against the brooding backdrop of Cumbria's fells. This is not just art; it is a gateway to a world where every glance reveals a deeper layer of beauty and power, a collector's treasure that promises to hold its audience in an unbreakable spell.

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CAST YOUR SPELL Imagine the early flourish of spring, where flowers burst into vibrant life, casting a mesmerizing spell upon all who behold them. Their hues, interwoven with delicate scents, weave an enchanting invitation to the pollinators of the world. It's a performance that captures hearts and ignites the dance of life.

But as time whirls onward, the winds of change sweep through, and the once-lavish hues begin to fade, and the fragrant symphony softens. The captivating spell seems to wane, petals fluttering to the ground. This is the moment when resilience takes center stage.

Isn't life much like these blossoms? We each cast our own spells, radiating with vibrancy and beauty, only to feel those moments ebb away. But fear not, for even as the petals fall, the essence of our true selves remains. In a world that may not always recognise our depth, we persist, we adapt, and we transform into something more profound.

Perhaps you've painted on a façade, striving to be seen and valued in a world that can be indifferent. Yet within you lies a complexity that defies mere perception. It's time to unveil your true essence, your unique allure. Time to cast your spell upon the world.

In a world often swayed by fleeting trends and superficial judgments, the artwork “Cast your Spell” becomes a beacon of authenticity. It serves as a constant reminder that beneath the surface lies a complex, valuable individual. Just as the blossom that nature magically creates every spring cast its spell on the world, this Limited Edition artwork, when hung on your wall, reminds and empowers you to unveil your true essence, breaking free from the constraints of societal expectations, it encourages you to show your unique self to the world rather than blending in with the 8 billion other human being that are alive today.

Limited Edition framed Print Artwork 42cm x 30cm Frame 56.6cm x 44.5cm Visit the Shop

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Creative Talents

Whilst the core of the flower starts undergoing a startling changes, the lush green foliage wakes up and unfurls, creating a protective canopy that shelters against the blazing summer sun. Beneath this verdant embrace, miracles of growth continue. The tree nourishes the essence of the blossom, birthing the seeds of change, revealing secrets unbeknownst to the world.

Beneath the sky where trust’s stars gleam, Love and understanding flow like a stream.

Voices mingle in the dance of fate, Open hearts, open doors create.

Communication, a thread spun gold, Truths tenderly spoken, stories boldly told.

Listening, the soil where connection grows, In the garden of interaction, empathy shows.

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Respect forms the roots, deep and strong, Trust, the river where hearts belong.

In this space, boundaries are revered, And every genuine gesture endeared.

Empathy’s gentle, soothing balm, Connects and comforts, brings the calm.

Compassion wraps us, firm and wide, In its embrace, we all confide.

We weave these bonds with delicate care, In the fabric of lives, rich and rare.

Nurture these threads, both old and new, Watch a tapestry of peace ensue.

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In the tempest of colors, I start to submerge, Lost in the hues where my fears converge.

Yellow bursts of chaos, blue whispers of fright, Each stroke lays bare my struggle, my chaos, my daily fight.

In this vivid turmoil, I seek the light, Hoping to find peace through this vibrant night.

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WHATS LEFT? In the wake of fallen blossom, a question lingers, whispering across time and nature: "What's left after the petals fade?" As we ponder this enigma, let its riddle dance not only in the realm of tree blossoms but in the tapestry of our own lives. Are we not like those adorned blooms, embellished to stand out amidst the crowd?

The artwork, a silent anthem to our resilience and the courage to be ourselves. With each brush stroke and pixel, it whispers that societal norms are but constraints, waiting to be shattered.

Be the unapologetic you, in a world where authenticity often fades in the crowd. Like the blossoms' spell, it empowers, setting free the real you – a complexity of emotions, dreams, and authenticity.

As you embrace this story, ponder the petals of life you've shed and the layers you've adorned.

In the dance between authenticity and embellishment, where do you find yourself?

Beyond fleeting trends, beyond society's gaze, lies the heartbeat of your truth.

What's left after the blossom has fallen? It's the essence, the authentic you. So why not seize the canvas of life and paint your journey with bold strokes of authenticity?

Owning the artwork titled "What's Left" encapsulates a profound benefit that resonates deeply with those who seek authenticity and meaning in their lives. Just as the story's narrative urges introspection and the quest for what truly matters, this artwork becomes a tangible representation of this journey, offering a range of advantages.

In the tapestry of life, just as the blossoms cast their spell on the world, the artwork becomes a mirror reflecting our journey.

A silent anthem to our resilience and the courage to be ourselves.

Limited Edition framed Print Artwork 42cm x 30cm Frame 56.6cm x 44.5cm Visit the Shop

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Yet, as we journey deeper into the heart of this question, a truth unfurls like a delicate petal. Beyond the transient allure of trends and the superficial veneer, what remains is the essence. It's the core of who we are, unadorned and unfiltered – our authenticity.

Much like the artwork that speaks to us, we, too, are intricate masterpieces of existence, beneath the surface, embodying worth beyond measure.

Finding the strength to be the person I was meant to be Beneath a thousand glaring lights, I stand, Amidst the chaos of a cluttered mind, Shedding layers of glitter and gilded guise, Stripping away confusion, left behind.

Echoes of judgments softly fade to naught, As spotlights shift to bare, unmasked grace, In this clear light, my true self is sought, From tumult’s hold, emerges a peaceful place.

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Clarity of mind outshines the former strife, Where my authentic self comes to the fore, My path clear of shadows, the maelstrom of thoughts Crystallizing into a stairway to my new life.

On this stage, clear and unadorned I'll be, Where true connections dance, and souls fly free.

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Confusion reigns where thoughts interlace.

Threads and patterns of ideas scattered in the chaos, seeking release, Fragments of self, fading from view.

Am I lost or merely passing through?

In this turmoil, clarity struggles to breakthrough.

What is happening to me?

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UNSEEN DAMAGE In the depths of adversity, there was a soul bound by the unseen shackles of a damaging past. To the world, this person was a beacon of triumph, a silhouette of success against the stark light of daybreak. Yet, beneath the surface, there were scars, etched not on the skin, but upon the very spirit that flickered within.

The road to rediscovery was paved with trials, each challenge a thorn that sought to draw blood and pull back to old ways. But with each hardship, resilience blossomed, scars became symbols of a silent, enduring strength. In solitude, this soul found truth— not the unmarred façade the world sought to see, but a survivor, a testament to the enduring human spirit.

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This journey began not with a step, but a leap—a daring escape from a life that was slowly leeching away the essence of true existence. To the observers, all seemed well, but beyond the gaze of prying eyes, a suffocating darkness lurked. It was a life that offered no reprieve, no solace, until the decision was made to walk away, to find freedom and the self that was lost in the shadows.

The artwork "Unseen Damage" embodies a poignant narrative of resilience, transformation, and the inner battles that shape our existence. Crafted as a tribute to the silent strength that arises from adversity, this limited edition print serves not only as an aesthetic masterpiece but also as an emblem of personal rebirth.

Limited Edition framed Print Artwork 42cm x 30cm Frame 56.6cm x 44.5cm Visit the Shop

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