The Seven Virtues of Humanity: Altruism

Altruism Mixed Media 51” x 24” 2020 Altruism, the opposite of Envy, is the least human out of all of the virtues as it is to be selfless for others to the detriment of one’s self. Being selfish is basic human nature as it serves to prolong our survival- but to be truly selfless, and focus on the happiness of others over the happiness of oneself is a true symbol of love. This figure exhibits features familiar to the deep ocean and to space, the 2 places in which humans have the least knowledge and exploration. The figure is covered with eyes, showing a concern for everyone around them, and the tentacles extending from its back are extending every direction, twisting and turning much like the people that the truly altruistic focus on over themselves. It is said by many that all people have evil deep inside of them, but I believe that on the opposite side of that coin, all people have a potential for true goodness in them as well. Portrayals of the 7 Deadly Sins have been made throughout the ages, but in order to promote love and celebrate the light that we all have within us, each virtue that I’ve portrayed displays a trait that counters a sin in the form of large-scale digital print with ink and gold-leaf embellishing.https://kb.gcsu.edu/visceral/1066/thumbnail.jp