Matters Arising 1 by Reuben Ayodeji

Medium: Pen on paper

Dimensions: 12.7 x 17.8 cm

Year: 2025

Price: $100.00 USD

Status: available

"Matters Arising 1" emerged from my contemplation on the complex narratives surrounding body image. I wanted to capture the essence of these debates, the tension between societal expectations and individual reality. In this piece, I invite you to confront the raw honesty of the human form, stripped of embellishment and judgment. As I drew, each pen stroke became a testament to the resilience and dignity inherent in every body. The texture and shading reflect the depth and nuance of these conversations. I chose a monochrome palette to emphasize the stark contrasts and subtle details, mirroring the often black-and-white nature of societal views on body size. I hope viewers feel a sense of connection and empathy, recognizing the beauty in diversity and the courage it takes to stand authentically in one’s skin. My wish is for this piece to inspire reflection on how we perceive ourselves and others, fostering a more compassionate dialogue around body image.