Philip Straub – Hex Of The Wicked Witch (Abraxsis) Philip Straub

The composition presents a central female figure, rendered with meticulous detail and bathed in an otherworldly luminescence. She is positioned against a backdrop of deep indigo, punctuated by scattered points of light that suggest a cosmic expanse. The artist has chosen a close-up perspective, focusing on the woman’s face and upper body, which are angled slightly towards the viewer.
Her expression is complex; it conveys both intensity and a certain melancholy. Her gaze is direct, almost challenging, yet her lips hint at a suppressed sadness. Long, flowing hair cascades down her shoulders, partially obscuring a garment that appears to be a stylized robe or tunic. The fabric’s folds are carefully rendered, contributing to the overall sense of depth and realism.
A prominent feature of the image is the large, conical hat she wears. From beneath its brim emanates a swirling vortex of vibrant green light, which seems to both originate from and envelop her. This visual element immediately suggests magical power or otherworldly connection. In her outstretched hand, she holds a sphere of similar luminous energy, further reinforcing this impression. The light emanating from the sphere illuminates her fingers, highlighting their delicate structure while also contributing to the overall dramatic effect.
The border surrounding the central image is noteworthy. It consists of an intricate pattern of stylized symbols and geometric shapes rendered in shades of blue and silver. This frame creates a sense of enclosure, isolating the figure within a defined space and enhancing the feeling that she exists outside of ordinary reality.
Subtly, the work explores themes of power, isolation, and perhaps even sacrifice. The woman’s gaze suggests an awareness of responsibility, while her melancholic expression hints at the burdens associated with wielding such potent abilities. The cosmic backdrop implies a connection to forces beyond human comprehension, suggesting that she is not merely a practitioner of magic but also a conduit for something larger than herself. The borders symbolic language further reinforces this sense of mystery and otherworldliness, inviting contemplation on the nature of power and its consequences.