Hanging Figure

Since introducing the human figure to my work in 1987 I have generally chosen to depict a single figure or group of figures in unusual and/or otherworldly situations. Typically the figures are either lifeless or exist in a state of transformation, having had to endure various unknown dangers, perils, or uncertainties. This is meant to reflect my primary focus on the ideas of change and transformation as they relate to the human condition.

Such is the case with Hanging Figure. The figure can be seen suspended by ropes attached to an unknown source outside the picture frame. He is strung up like a puppet being manipulated by the will or whim of some mysterious force or entity. His vulnerable nude body hangs in an empty void. He is lifeless. His hands are limp and his head is crooked back at an odd angle suggesting his neck has been broken. A cloth shrouds his head obscuring his identity. The ends of the cloth flow down under his body forming a figure eight, hinting that it could symbolically help support his physical and psychological weight for all eternity.

The pose of the body in Hanging Figure references historical works of art that depict Christ's decent from the cross. In those representations other people carefully help lower Christ's body down from the cross. In Hanging Figure I decided to use ropes to support the figure instead of other people. By omitting the people, and the feeling that their care and compassion would bring to the drawing, the figure is left isolated and alone. This, along with the empty space in which he hangs, helps heighten the figure's tragic condition.

Like many of my pictures, Hanging Figure, exudes a sense of mystery. Questions arise like: Will he hang, as he is, immobile, for all eternity? Or will he be lifted up toward the light that illuminates him, as if ascending to heaven, and be resurrected? Or will he be lowered to some terrible place like purgatory to continue a fate of eternal suffering? Or maybe the ropes will grow tauter and tauter until his body is torn apart?

Whatever scenario or scenarios the viewer envisions I hope the drama depicted in Hanging Figure provides a rich and haunting viewing experience.

- Brian Mains, July 2021