For the past six years, Young has worked on a new series of flower paintings inspired by the Dutch Golden Age, New Order, and the hidden messages these impossible arrangements hold. "The Language of Flowers" delves into a captivating exploration of secrecy, hidden emotions, and the entangled complexities of human relationships. Inspired by the close-up imagery of 17th-century golden age Dutch flower paintings, Young embarks on a visual journey that intertwines the symbolism of decaying beauty, delicate insects, and the enduring power of clandestine connections.
Drawing upon the tradition of Dutch floral still-life paintings, Young meticulously crafts each artwork in the series as hand-pulled, four-color screen prints.
"This technique allows me to capture the intricate details and vibrant colors of the flowers, while simultaneously infusing the compositions with a sense of contemporary intrigue and introspection." -Russell Young
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The Enduring Power of Hidden Connections
By introducing elements such as moths, ants, and the inevitable decay of beauty, he seeks to amplify the dichotomy between the ephemeral nature of desire and the enduring power of hidden connections.These motifs serve as reminders of the fragility of secrets, the transformative passage of time, and the intricate dance between attraction and vulnerability.
Through this series, Young invites viewers to embark on a personal journey, to explore the enigmatic world of emotions and the untold stories hidden beneath the surface.
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The Language of Flowers
On View at Atelier by Relevant Galleries, May 2025