Adam Wever-Glen

University of California, Davis

Alizarin, 2020
oil on canvas, 36 x 36 inches

Tell us about the work that you have submitted.
There is a scene in Cormac McCarthy's Blood Meridian where a group of murderous outlaws sits around a campfire, staring into the flames. The wood glows, forming cracks and fissures, revealing "hidden geometries." The figure, like charred tinder, is in grayscale so that its own hidden geometries may be pondered. Surrounding the figure, like fire, is a gaseous, alizarin atmosphere – womblike and stellar.

What motivated you to apply to the AXA Art Prize?
The AXA Art Prize is a unique exhibition because it highlights figurative work by students. I'm unaware of any other exhibition like it. As a figurative artist, I could not pass up the opportunity. To have a painting selected for a national exhibition, judged by a panel representing prestigious institutions, is an honor. It is also a wonderful opportunity to show my work with an amazing group of artists.

With the pandemic forcing the world to rethink how we keep moving forward, do you feel encouraged or inspired in your own studio practice to persevere despite these challenges?
The pandemic has shown how fragile our human world really is. I think we've all been shaken out of our own little realities. The pandemic, as well as the BLM movement, has forced me to re-examine my life and work. During this time in quarantine, I've asked myself many times if what I'm doing is worth pursuing. Making art can feel very selfish much of the time. I'm not directly changing policy or solving injustice by making paintings. I've come to peace with these thoughts, though, and concluded that we each have our strengths and weaknesses, and we each help in what ways we can. I'm humbled and grateful to be able to continue painting and shining whatever light I can into this world. 

Instagram: @adamweverglen