Vulnerability 37

Artist statement

Kris Ancog explores the complexity of human emotions and paradoxically unifies chaos and peace in abstracted ethereal worlds in this painting titled Vulnerability 37. Being a witness of tragedies and miracles in his professional nursing career, Ancog weaves life stories in each layer of oil paint on his canvas and infuse tales of courage in the face of uncertainties. The atmospheric images Ancog creates reveal underlying influences of the old masters but ultimately forges abstract expressions that unfold the juxtaposition of the discomfort and beauty of living a vulnerable yet authentic self. The artist applies multiple layers of oil paint on his canvas, creating evocative dreamscapes with disorientating but harmonious fusion of natural and unnatural palette. With his masterful use of colours and textures, Ancog presents to us these illuminated abstract landscapes that summons familiar but rather stirring emotions, empowering us to contemplate on our own vulnerability and imperfection. The meditations upon the fragility of life are the genesis of Vulnerability, and the light in nature is the artist’s constant inspiration. As Ancog watches the sunset and meditates, he is reminded of all the things he holds dearly, and how they could be taken away at any moment. Surrendering to it all, Ancog faithfully chooses love, courage, resilience, and hope over what can sometimes be a cynical and brooding world, trusting that his faith and appreciation of all he loves and passionately yearns for in life will be the means upon which he cultivates authentic and meaningful connections. Ancog’s Vulnerability painting is a heart-warming portrayal of complicated emotions, which also gives us a glimpse of the unfathomed fragment of the human condition. This series also reminds us that vulnerability involves taking risks, such as fully embracing life even if it doesn’t come with guarantees. In the end, these paintings invite us to ask ourselves deeply on the things that truly matter in our lives, and how we value them with gratitude and joy.