One of the first pieces done after a hiatus from art and it is these two men before the Mother of God. I am always drawn to the push-pull of eroticism and disgust, of wanting and loathing, of id and superego, of sanctity and sacrilege, of rape and rapture.

Getting to play in that space and explore those themes with these two characters I have had for more of my life now than not is always a delight — these two men are something of a constant wellspring of thematic inspiration and emotional catharsis. I cannot help but look at the Church, hell, all Christendom, with a mix of shame and want: the abuses and hypocrisy are disgusting yet there is such community and relief and joy people find (to say nothing of those who actually do feel something spiritually.) Cruelty and charity. So may art exorcise such.

Clip Studio Paint | 10 Nov 2025