finding my way......Critique please.

[Rhea O'Neill]

Hi Everyone,

I have begun producing a new series of paintings titled Red Men. Inspired by the images of uncontacted primitive tribes still existing in South America, the series aims to highlight the growing divide between civilization (the way we live now) and our perceived roots. These roots are connected though stories, myths and modern science, creating a confusing jumble of messages through which we view our home. A simpler way of life seems to have become a utopian dream for many while some would believe that destruction and death, of our own creation, looms on the horizon through this very pursuit. 

I have always depicted landscapes but I have recently been adding figures and buildings in a hope that it will further the narrative element of my paintings. I'd love to know what you think. If you would like to see some of my previous work I have a full online portfolio at www.rheaoneill.com and there are two previous paintings from this current series on my Artists2artists page.

Thank you,

Rhea x

Run. 89cm x 127cm, Oil on Canvas, March 2012

[Laurel Sternberg]

Very interesting, mysterious, draws me in.

[Ben Mickelson]

Peter Doig does some similar things with nature vs. civilization.  It might be fun to look at his paintings.