In this deeply personal and symbolic self-portrait, Unlocking Within explores identity, vulnerability, and self-realization through the lens of the Cancer zodiac. Rendered in a celestial palette of blues and purples with vibrant, expressive neon elements, the painting depicts the artist unlocking their own chest — a literal and metaphorical act of self-discovery.
A key, sculpted hand-carved from foam are physically affixed to the canvas, pierces a vortex-like cavity in the figure’s chest — the heart center — symbolizing the act of reaching inward to reveal the true self. Surrounding this keyhole are several real metal keys, permanently adhered to the canvas. These represent the many attempts — failed or misaligned — to open up, understand, or connect with one’s inner truth.
The swirling galaxy-like background situates the piece within a cosmic context, aligning the emotional and introspective traits of Cancer with the vast inner universe we each hold. The Cancer sign is known for its deeply emotional, protective, and intuitive qualities, which resonate throughout the piece’s visual language.
This work is not only a self-portrait but a ritual of healing — unlocking, with the right key, the layers of identity guarded beneath the surface.
• 1.25″ (3.18 cm) thick poly-cotton blend canvas
• Canvas fabric weight: 10.15 +/- 0.74 oz./yd.² (344 g/m² +/- 25g/m²)
• Fade-resistant
• Hand-stretched over solid wood stretcher bars
• Mounting brackets included
• Blank product sourced from the US, Canada, Europe, UK, or Australia
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
Size:
In this deeply personal and symbolic self-portrait, Unlocking Within explores identity, vulnerability, and self-realization through the lens of the Cancer zodiac. Rendered in a celestial palette of blues and purples with vibrant, expressive neon elements, the painting depicts the artist unlocking their own chest — a literal and metaphorical act of self-discovery.
A key, sculpted hand-carved from foam are physically affixed to the canvas, pierces a vortex-like cavity in the figure’s chest — the heart center — symbolizing the act of reaching inward to reveal the true self. Surrounding this keyhole are several real metal keys, permanently adhered to the canvas. These represent the many attempts — failed or misaligned — to open up, understand, or connect with one’s inner truth.
The swirling galaxy-like background situates the piece within a cosmic context, aligning the emotional and introspective traits of Cancer with the vast inner universe we each hold. The Cancer sign is known for its deeply emotional, protective, and intuitive qualities, which resonate throughout the piece’s visual language.
This work is not only a self-portrait but a ritual of healing — unlocking, with the right key, the layers of identity guarded beneath the surface.
• 1.25″ (3.18 cm) thick poly-cotton blend canvas
• Canvas fabric weight: 10.15 +/- 0.74 oz./yd.² (344 g/m² +/- 25g/m²)
• Fade-resistant
• Hand-stretched over solid wood stretcher bars
• Mounting brackets included
• Blank product sourced from the US, Canada, Europe, UK, or Australia
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
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