LIFE AND ITS BREVITY IN THE FORM OF A DISASTER․ "War is the cruelest disaster, it’s like a killing machine, it destroys our nature and environment, it swallows our souls. The painting is showing a man with a gas mask, pointing at butterflies that are flying into the fire nearby. No matter how big or small the war, innocent people always suffer. The butterflies are symbols of peace and will fly up to heaven. They are flying to the light and they will burn to ashes finally. This is the death of innocence... They are the soul, the importance of life, and its brevity. If only we had died beautifully, as they do..." Kay Leben | Painter
An original oil painting in a collage style with a number of symbolic layers in it. With a sharp silhouette of people running and screaming, the scene speaks to our fears about nuclear war, chemical pollution, and the destruction of human life.
The “War Machine” is not as monotonous as traditional collage, it has more depth and power of art. It depicts the irreversible effects of war. The butterfly represents life and hope yet its struggle to survive amidst the chaos. There is also a burning fire behind them, which symbolizes the atomic explosion. The artwork reflects the effects of war on innocent people, as well as rapid industrialization that many times has led to major pollution.
Technique Oil on canvas
Hand painted
Details Style & subject: pop art, surrealism
Country of origin: USA
Fit Stretched: on supported wooden frame
Unstretched: rolled canvas