Paradise Bound reflects on the pursuit of happiness that went awry—the current tragedies of immigrants who leave their disaster-struck countries in search of a better life in more developed countries, only to become entangled in a web of bureaucracy, face jail, and deportation.
Starting with intuitive abstract marks (first layer), once digitally collaged with photography and geometry, a surprising narrative emerged. “Paradise Bound,” perhaps, depicts the deceptive reality of a promised paradise. The painting is divided by two arches: the left, filled with lush flowers and soft light, represents the initial promise of a beautiful life. In stark contrast, the right arch shows a trapped figure, their form obscured by chaotic lines, symbolizing the harsh reality of confinement and disappointment. A flowing, vibrant path connects these two scenes, illustrating a journey that began with hope but ended in a trap. The piece, with its blend of abstract and realistic elements, explores the complex emotions of immigration—the allure of a new beginning that ultimately leads to a new form of struggle.