Polyester
Signed on the back.
Frame not included
Depicted by many artists and the subject of one of my favourite paintings by Titian, Marsyas, who is flayed as punishment for facing Apollo in a musical duel, was known for his wisdom as well as his artistry.
People who have been following my work for years will know how significant music is in my practice. I’ve always been fascinated by stories of people who are flayed alive - the obvious gore and unimaginable cruelty. The idea of peeling away the exterior to reveal the truth of the interior is a deeply compelling idea.
The story of Marsyas brings together two of my biggest sources of inspiration —music and the interior, in this case, the 'interior' of the Australian outback. In this portrait, I depict my husband Simon in the role of Marsyas. As a musician, there is an obvious connection to the subject of the myth. Every time he walks on stage, he exposes himself in such a way that leaves him feeling almost skinless.