placebo

Placebo

"Placebo" is a thought-provoking series that explores the subtle illusions we create to find comfort in a world full of emotional complexities. Each abstract piece in this collection represents an action or object that offers temporary solace, without ever truly addressing the deeper cause of inner struggles. Through dynamic forms, rich textures, and vibrant colors, the series invites viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between perception and reality. It evokes a quiet contemplation of how we navigate our psychological landscapes, offering a visual meditation on the human mind’s ability to seek comfort amidst uncertainty.

Summer rain

"Summer Rain" embodies the idea of placebo within the series, representing a fleeting moment of relief and renewal. Just as a summer rain washes away the heaviness of the day, this artwork reflects the temporary escape it provides—a brief, beautiful pause where everything feels fresher and lighter. However, like any placebo, the rain can only mask the underlying pain for a short time. It conceals emotions, hiding the struggle behind its soft veil, giving the illusion that all is well. But as the skies clear, the familiar weight returns, leaving the underlying reality unchanged. This piece invites the viewer to reflect on the delicate balance between temporary comfort and the deeper truths that eventually resurface. 24" x 24" x 1.5" Oil on canvas 2023

Second Chance

"Second Chance" captures the moment when we convince ourselves that things will finally be different, that this time, change will last. Whether in relationships, careers, or even life’s smallest routines, we often fall into the pattern of doing the same things and hoping for a different outcome. This painting reflects the fleeting hope we cling to—the belief that if we just try again, things will turn out right. Yet, like all placebos, this second chance can be a comforting illusion, offering temporary solace before reality resurfaces. The piece invites viewers to consider how often we embrace this hopeful narrative, even when deep down, we know the outcome may not change.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023

Home

"Home" explores the deep connection between a sense of belonging and the small, personal objects that ground us. Home is not about walls or possessions; it’s the place where you feel safe, where your problems seem smaller, and where everything feels right. In this piece, the yellow tram from Portugal becomes a symbol of that comfort, a personal anchor that turns any space into a sanctuary. Like a placebo, it offers a moment of peace and refuge, creating a temporary escape from the chaos of life.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023

Train to Scotland

"Train to Scotland" reflects the restless pursuit of escape, where new places and experiences provide only a temporary distraction from the weight of unresolved inner struggles. Inspired by the phrase, "No matter where you go, you can't escape from yourself," this piece captures the fleeting relief offered by a change of scenery—an attempt to outrun problems through the kaleidoscope of new sights and sensations. Yet, just as the train slows, the weight of unaddressed thoughts and emotions comes crashing back, reminding us that no journey can truly free us from ourselves. The artwork explores the tension between escape and self-confrontation, offering a momentary sense of peace, like a placebo, before reality sets in again.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023

Hide

"Hide" explores the concept of personal refuge—those comforting spaces, both physical and emotional, where we retreat to find solace. Whether it’s the quiet of the woods, the familiarity of home, or the anonymity of a crowd, these places offer temporary relief from the weight of everyday struggles. The painting delves into the idea that while these sanctuaries can recharge us, they can also become crutches, places where we hide from confronting deeper issues. Like a placebo, they offer short-term comfort, but when that comfort no longer sustains us, it becomes clear that something more is needed to truly heal.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023

Dreaming

"Dreaming" reflects the delicate balance between escape and reality, capturing the moments when we retreat into dreams as a form of refuge. Dreams, like a comforting sanctuary, offer temporary relief—a place where problems fade, and everything feels possible. Yet, much like a placebo, they provide only fleeting comfort, masking the deeper issues that remain unresolved. While dreaming can inspire and uplift, it can also become a form of avoidance, a soft illusion that shields us from confronting the real challenges ahead. The artwork invites reflection on the fine line between hope and escape, and the moment when dreams no longer suffice to keep us afloat.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023

Wedding bells

"Wedding Bells" explores the societal pressure surrounding marriage, portraying it as a comforting yet fleeting solution to deeper personal issues. The painting reflects on the idea that marriage, when pursued simply for the sake of conforming to expectations, offers temporary relief—an illusion that everything will be okay. For a while, it may seem like the problems are resolved, but as time passes, the cracks reappear, and the unresolved emotions come back to the surface. Like a placebo, the wedding bells provide momentary comfort, but they cannot fix the underlying struggles, ultimately leading to a return of the very issues they were meant to mask.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023

Lover

"Lover" delves into the idea of seeking solace in relationships, where a lover becomes a temporary fix for deeper emotional struggles. The artwork reflects on how we sometimes use love as a distraction, hoping that the warmth of another person will heal what’s broken within ourselves. For a while, being with someone can seem like the answer, a comfort that makes everything feel right. But, like a placebo, this connection only masks the underlying issues. Eventually, the unresolved emotions resurface, and the relationship, built on a need for escape rather than true healing, begins to crumble.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023

Soulmates

"Soulmate" explores the deeply ingrained belief that finding a soulmate will solve all emotional struggles and bring lasting happiness. The painting reflects on how the idea of a "perfect partner" can become a comforting illusion, offering a sense of hope and completion. For a time, it feels like the missing piece has been found, but when the relationship is built on the expectation of salvation rather than personal growth, the unresolved issues inevitably return. Like a placebo, the concept of a soulmate offers temporary comfort, but it cannot heal the deeper problems that must be faced individually.

24" x 24" x 1.5"
Oil on canvas
2023