Serena by Rebecca Dzartov in Melbourne

2022, 23 x 23 inches (60 x 60 cm), Oil, Acrylic & Recycled Plastic on canvas. “Serena” is the start of a series inspired by qualities. A representation of ‘Curiosity’: “marked by desire to investigate and learn” A sliced brunette-haired woman with a “halo” of eyes, leaves, and dandelions sits inside an oval filigree-inspired frame. Painted with a gradient from a pastel yellow to a dark deep brown. A floating hand holds a glowing yellow lantern that shines onto Serena and her fox friend’s faces. After a long journey, Serena can finally say she found the light. “Serena” is the first human face I’ve ever painted. Inspired by art nouveau & stained window art I feel this piece is the first that I’ve successfully balanced between my tattoo & painting/drawing styles. The jewels, parts of the lantern, and some dots in the background are made from recycled plastic. Slicing up Serena’s face represents how temporary our physical world is. The hand holding the lantern represents the Hand of God & Jesus Christ. The fox represents how much of a blessing animals are to us in our time here on earth. “This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.” – 1 John 1:5