This piece delves into the age-old theme of memento mori, a subject you've likely seen in historical prints where a skeleton, representing Death, appears to a youthful figure. Classically, this scene often featured a young woman gazing into a mirror—a "mirror that flatters not," reflecting the inevitability of our mortal fate.
In "Whisper," I've sought to reimagine this powerful allegory for our modern age. The traditional mirror is replaced by a smartphone. In a way, the phone is a new kind of mirror, but one that does flatter. Through filters, curated profiles, and the endless scroll, we project altered versions of ourselves into the digital world. The piece captures that quiet, intimate moment of absorption, as the ever-present figure of Death leans in, a silent witness to our digital trance.
To deepen the narrative, I have embossed a secret poem on the upper left side of the print. This verse is printed inklessly, creating a "blind deboss" effect. It is nearly invisible from a distance, but as you get closer or let a soft light rake across the surface, the words are revealed. It's a quiet whisper meant for the thoughtful observer:
Each flick and swipe, a moment lost,
A phantom world, at such a cost.
The silent watcher, a grin so wide,
As precious seconds drain and hide
This artwork was created using the meticulous and traditional techniques of copperplate engraving and drypoint. Every line is incised into a polished copper plate by hand before being inked and pressed onto high-quality, archival paper. The sharp, precise details of the engraved line give the image a unique depth and texture.
Whisper, Copper Engraving, Drypoint, 2025. Print size 20x20cm, 7.9x7.9in paper size ~23x23cm, 9x10in. Printed on Hahnemühle Copperplate 300gr "Antique" German mould-made archival quality paper.
"Whisper" is more than just an image; it's a conversation piece and a contemplation on the moments we trade for a phantom world. It would make a meaningful and lasting addition to any art collection.
