What are you looking at?

Oil on linen

What are you looking at? is available.
If you’re interested, please email me at info@annemarijemiddag.nl.

The artwork revolves around the concept of observation, judgment, and the importance of taking time to truly see and understand beyond surface appearances. The artist captured the reactions of a group of people as they observed videos of other individuals in a clean white space. Their task was to guess about these ‘’Others’’ – ages, jobs, and more. The mix of reactions was then painted on a canvas. The artwork showcases various emotions and expressions, reflecting the complexity of human perception and interpretation.

The repetition of the same person in the painting, along with the changing sequence of emotions, creates a sense of confusion and curiosity for the viewer. This aspect of time adds depth to the experience, encouraging the audience to ponder the significance of observation and judgment in relation to the passage of time.

The concept of the gaze is central to the artwork. Both the subjects within the painting and the spectators looking at the painting are engaged in a process of observing and judging. This dynamic creates a dialogue between the internal gaze of the subjects within the painting and the external gaze of the viewers in front of the painting. The painting thus becomes a medium for exploring how we perceive others, make judgments based on appearances, and potentially overlook the complexity of their experiences.

The artist’s intention to emphasize the importance of seeing beyond surface-level features aligns with the broader theme of encouraging deeper understanding and interpretation. By allowing ourselves time to observe without rushing to judgments, we might uncover more nuanced aspects of situations or individuals.In essence, this artwork prompts viewers to consider how they observe, interpret, and judge the world around them. It highlights the value of taking a step back, looking beyond initial impressions, and embracing a more thoughtful and empathetic perspective.