"The Elephant in the Room"
Material: Acrylic paint on wood

Rationale:
I have developed a profound interest in the Indian culture due to various influences such as my friends, Bollywood films, music and food. I admire their textiles and patterns which I embodied in my work, specifically in my depiction of a caparison (nettipattam) on an elephant with vibrant colours and patterns to explore the complexity of Indian culture. Additionally, I have been practising the art of henna for a few years now, and in being self taught, I have decidedly incorporated this art form as an element in my major work. My central artwork focuses on an elephant with a caparison and a calf, both of which wear golden jewellery. My major work has been crafted with the materials belonging to the wooden-walled desk in my bedroom. During the trying period of isolation and at-home learning, I kept myself occupied by sanding and painting my wall with coats of ivory paint. Practicing henna art was the highlight of my process, as it isn't a form of art commonly engaged with. I encourage my audiences to experience the uniqueness of Indian culture and art that they are typically unaware of and furthermore, I hope this artwork provokes audiences to consider the non-western art forms such as henna and acknowledge different forms of multicultural art.
MICHAEL MILONE