The Traveler is a common symbol within Bak’s "Figuring Out" Series, one which speaks to themes of displacement, home, and the complicated search for identity. The figure becomes a part of his surrounding environment, entrenched in the rocky landscape. However, his mission is clear, and his defined form demonstrates the solidity of his identity and mission; he is not lost yet.
Edges of suitcases poke up from the ambiguous landscape, as well as a landlocked boat. All around are reminders of those that have attempted to make this same journey and failed to reach the final destination. A mountain in the background symbolizes a far off and intangible haven. What lies on the other side of this unclimbable mountain?
The brush strokes in the painting are textured and atmospheric, the most fleshed out part of the painting being the figure in the foreground. The desolate landscape is composed of varying shades of muted greys and blues, the resulting effect being somewhere between rocky terrain and water. Subtle shades of orange highlight the figure’s outline and the top edge of the ship. The journey is treacherous and lonely, and yet the traveler continues.
Lilly Harvey (Guest writer)
BAK a Day, October 12, 2023
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A superb image to serve as the cover for the next Bak book Figuring Out.
How perfect, an image of the figure emerging from the stone moving towards the scene of the past or the future.
A landscape decimated by people with the sunken ship trapped in the valley of loss.
A landscape of mystery and one that references the destruction of our planet.
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