Barcelona-based artist Connor Addison delves into the depths of the human soul, exploring emotions inspired by art, love, and relationships. His angular paintings, rendered in muted reds and blues, invite viewers into a mysterious realm where figures interact with enigmatic, omnipotent entities.

True sublimity comes from outside or from the depths of the soul; it cannot be visualized literally. Thus, the figures in this series engage with mysterious, overwhelming entities that embody sublime power, fear, and anxiety.

With light inevitably comes darkness—a dualism that perpetually intrigues the artist. “We often forget to embrace the shadow, as it’s presumed to be unloved or invisible,” he remarks. Addison reaches for what lies “in the space between our joy, passion, conscious thought, and our fear… what lurks in the shadows of our minds.” He often begins a painting with a question or thought that transforms into an allegory. For example, “Brothers II” arose from inquiries like, “What are brotherly relationships? How do play and manipulation function between siblings?”

Working in a subdued earth-toned palette, Addison depicts cubist figures with sharp bodies and geometric limbs. By eschewing clothing and distinctive facial features, he addresses universal feelings and emotions such as unconditional love, suffering, and curiosity. He notes, “I love the idea that someone, 2,000 years in the future or past, might still find my work meaningful and understandable—perhaps even on another planet!

Allegory is a powerful thing. Its popularity waned with the decline of religion and the rise of literacy, but I cherish the history captured in imagery. It can convey so much more than words.”