Robert Bowen
Phoenix Rising, 2020

acrylic on canvas
50”H x 50”W

ARTwork statement:

As the pandemic began, I started thinking about how we could eventually make it out of this shared tragedy. A phoenix rising from the ashes immediately came to mind. As a forever ally to the LGBTQ+, AAPI, and BIPOC communities, this symbolism became even more powerful to me as new and continued aggressions against these communities started to climb. We will rise above, together. In addition, I was recently hospitalized and had to have an emergency surgery, making this piece even more personal as a means of symbolizing healing and recovery. I hope we all feel a sense of growth and renewal as we start to reemerge.

ARTIST BIO:

A visual artist living and working in San Francisco, Robert Bowen has been exhibiting his artwork throughout the US for over twenty-five years. Bowen got his start through graffiti and street art, and briefly went on to attend art school. He continues his self schooling to obtain a classical education as a painter.