‘The Power Behind The Brush’ Oil on Linen Painting by Janice Lightowler

I was creating the Nemesis Series and the students I tutor asked if I would paint a self-portrait. The unusual composition surprised them, as rather than fully focusing on my image, I also depicted my strength of character.

Art has been an amazing gift for me because I have been able to continue building my career even with a very challenging health condition.

Using the complexities of my art as a distraction helps with the pain management. From the light touch of the brush to the force that it inflicts hopefully indicates how strong the medium of art can be, way beyond our comprehension.

I've depicted myself standing over the image in a dominant position although I am rarely able to do this when I am painting. My composure is serene and my strength is undeniable as I force the image actually off the canvas. Every stroke inflicts agony.

The roles are reversed in this piece as the sadist causing the suffering becomes the sufferer. I use the brush like a weapon to inflict extreme physical and mental torture.