pa-art 001 Dave McKean 01 Dave Mckean

Here we see a densely layered assemblage, primarily utilizing photographic elements and what appears to be mixed media on a dark background. The central focus is a distorted, almost grotesque human face rendered in muted earth tones – ochre, brown, and grey – with an exaggerated open mouth suggesting a scream or primal expression of anguish. This figure dominates the composition, its features blurred and fragmented, conveying a sense of suffering and decay.
The surrounding space isnt empty; it’s filled with smaller photographic fragments. These include what seem to be architectural details (a staircase, a doorway), abstract shapes resembling organic forms, and close-ups of textures – possibly bone or wood. The inclusion of mechanical elements – cogs and gears – positioned near the upper right corner introduces an industrial, almost clockwork quality, suggesting themes of control, mechanism, and perhaps dehumanization.
The overall effect is one of claustrophobia and unease. The fragmented nature of both the central figure and the surrounding imagery creates a sense of disorientation and brokenness. Theres a deliberate lack of clarity; details are obscured, boundaries blurred, creating an atmosphere of mystery and psychological tension. The dark background serves to amplify this feeling, pushing the viewer into a space that feels oppressive and unsettling.
The juxtaposition of organic forms (the face, potential bone fragments) with mechanical elements suggests a conflict between nature and technology, or perhaps a commentary on the corruption of natural processes by industrial forces. The work evokes themes of suffering, fragmentation, and the loss of identity – a visual representation of inner turmoil or societal breakdown.