“Excuse me, I’m half Jewish – do you mind taking the blood from the other side.” – 2022

Oil on canvas. H93.5 x W69 cm

Self-portrait immediately after nine-hour pancreatic cancer surgery to excise a large 10.5 cm tumor. This entailed the removal of two thirds of my pancreas and my spleen. In recovery I experienced acute psychotic trauma which is pictorially relayed via the interlocking ‘greenback’ spider wallpaper. The gravity of this situation is recognizable to anyone who has had life threatening surgery. The (amusing) title is intended to leaven the solemnity depicted. Aluta continua

Facing the possibility of imminent death is of consequence to every human being. Death essentially answers the great question in life.

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