AgeToAge Shane Nagel

The composition presents a central, monumental figure dominating the vertical space. This being, seemingly androgynous, is enveloped in flowing robes of pale violet, accentuated by large, stylized wings that extend outwards from either side. Above the head floats a crescent-shaped form radiating golden light, suggesting a celestial or divine presence. The face itself is rendered with minimal detail – blank eyes and a smooth surface contribute to an impression of universality rather than individual identity.
Arranged around this central figure are numerous circular motifs, each containing distinct symbolic imagery. These appear as windows into different realms or moments in time, layered within the being’s form. One circle displays a stylized fish swimming upwards through flames, evoking themes of transformation and spiritual ascent. Another contains a chalice, potentially representing ritual or sustenance. A heart is depicted within its own sphere, suggesting emotional depth or perhaps sacrifice. Further circles showcase scenes involving figures holding instruments, what appears to be a procession, and an apple – all contributing to a narrative that remains deliberately ambiguous.
Below the central figure, the landscape unfolds in a vibrant, almost hallucinatory manner. The ground is rendered with swirling patterns of green and blue, punctuated by symbolic animals: a bison stands prominently, while a serpent winds its way through the terrain. A circular structure, reminiscent of a standing stone or ancient monument, sits near the base of the figure, anchoring the composition to an earthly plane.
The color palette is rich and saturated, with blues and purples dominating the upper portion of the painting, contrasting with the warmer tones of gold, orange, and red in the lower regions. This contrast reinforces a sense of verticality and hierarchy within the work. The overall effect is one of layered symbolism and esoteric meaning. It suggests a cosmology where time, history, and spiritual experience are interwoven and contained within a single, encompassing entity. The deliberate lack of concrete narrative invites contemplation on themes of creation, transformation, and the cyclical nature of existence.