In this painting, “What the Duck”, I explore the dissonance between language and meaning in the digital age, embodied by the transformation of the phrase “what the fuck” into the innocuous “what the duck.” This seemingly benign correction serves as a metaphor for our navigation through the murky waters of online communication, where innocence collides with the dangers lurking in the shadows.

At the center of this piece is a duck—both playful and profound—whose vibrant, peacock-like plumage contrasts sharply with the deep darkness of the internet. As it plunges into this abyss, it becomes a symbol of the unexpected journeys we embark on in our quest for connection and understanding. The air bubbles rising to the surface morph into candy lollipops, a whimsical yet haunting representation of lost innocence and the sweet allure of distraction in a world often devoid of genuine interaction.

An old rotary phone, a relic of a bygone era, appears in the composition, evoking a sense of nostalgia as it underscores the theme of disconnection. This device, once a lifeline to others, now stands as a stark reminder of the isolation we experience in the digital landscape. In this space, messages can be lost in translation, and the silence on the other end can feel as profound as the depths we plunge into.

The rich reds of the painting invite viewers into this chaotic interplay of emotion and experience, drawing them closer to the narrative while simultaneously hinting at the underlying dangers that await. Through this work, I invite contemplation on the nature of communication, the innocence of our intentions, and the complex realities of our digital interactions. Ultimately, it is a reflection on the search for connection in an increasingly disconnected world.