Self Portrait Exorcism
Pastel on canvas, 2010
1220 x 1000
Anna Boros explains that this work depicts the evolution of her life, and of all women.
“Women tend to wear many masks. Home duties, work duties, family duties, her own real self… and of course the continual adjustment that life forces one to make.
This not only affects the personality, but also cultural and social status. We must continually reposition ourselves to fit life’s needs. Like the woman in ‘Self Portrait Exorcism’, it feels so good to become ourselves and take off that mask. Not unlike coming home from work in the quiet and taking off our uniform. Release, relief, and relaxation.”
We see a woman, naked in a seating position, bare breasted. Her right arm reaches behind her head as if ready to take off her mask. Her left arm crosses in front to cover her, relaxed.
Her legs are a snaky undulation of flesh that contrasts with the remaining, human portrait. Her feet are small and the sole of her right foot is seen underneath… could it be her moving leg? Her left foot is bent forward, tiny red toenails visible. Her long hair and skin are brown. Her mask is made up, and her lips are full but closed. Eyes closed. The look of a tribal and tattooed design on her face mask. The background is aqua.