TheCrossing Daniel Merriam

Here we observe a complex composition dominated by animalistic figures rendered in muted earth tones against a pale, indistinct background. The artist has created a scene that feels both fantastical and deeply symbolic, eschewing realistic representation for a dreamlike quality.
The central focus is a procession of creatures moving from left to right across the canvas. A large, elephantine form leads the group, its head turned slightly towards the viewer. Perched atop this figure is a smaller, humanoid creature with elongated limbs and an inquisitive expression. This placement suggests a hierarchical relationship or perhaps a parasitic dependence. Behind the lead animal strides a canine-like being, possessing a distinctly mournful countenance; its posture conveys a sense of weariness or resignation. A spotted feline follows closely, its gaze fixed forward, seemingly driven by an unseen force. Further back in the group, other indistinct forms contribute to the overall impression of a collective journey.
The background is deliberately vague, hinting at a landscape that recedes into obscurity. Several small, bird-like shapes are scattered across this space, adding a sense of movement and perhaps representing fleeting thoughts or aspirations. The artist’s use of washes and blurred edges contributes to an atmosphere of ambiguity, preventing the viewer from establishing a clear spatial context.
The subtexts within this work appear to revolve around themes of burden, leadership, and the nature of collective experience. The elephantine figure, burdened by the smaller creature on its back, could symbolize societal responsibility or the weight of expectation. The canine’s melancholic expression might represent the sacrifices inherent in progress or the emotional toll of leadership. The procession itself suggests a journey through an uncertain future, with each member contributing to the groups momentum while carrying their own individual burdens.
The absence of human figures is significant; instead, animals are imbued with human-like qualities, prompting reflection on our place within the natural world and the shared experiences that bind all living beings. The muted color palette reinforces the somber mood, suggesting a narrative steeped in introspection and quiet contemplation rather than overt drama.