Midwestern Gothic
Samuel Helmbreck (Concord, MI)
Oil on canvas, 16” W x 20” H
Artwork:
This piece depicts an environment of loneliness and acceptance in a devastating future.
Artist Statement:
My figurative painting work depicts possible experiences, struggles, and futures that are the cause of environmental issues, negligence, or degradation. They simulate scenarios in which we, as humans, have to adapt to these changes in the environment. Anthropogenic refers to environmental change or pollution by human activity. By creating art depicting the devastating anthropogenic future, we can see how our current issues related to climate change are happening right now. There are worldwide problems that stem from climate change like increased wildfires, increased flood rates, contamination, and increased temperatures.
These connect with personal learning experiences in environmental studies and express my eco-anxiety related to environmental devastation. I aim to bring the viewer closer to the reality of environmental disaster and establish thought and conversation about the issues. This allows a space for them to speak with others about these issues and self-reflect.