Chase Lock

Grandma Quit Drink'n

2024

48 x 48 ″

Oil on canvas

In Grandma Quit Drink'n, Chase Lock masterfully merges bold expressionism with layers of rich, tactile texture to craft a piece that is both playful and deeply evocative. The thick impasto technique creates a striking contrast against the flat, fiery red backdrop. The interplay of color produces an intense visual energy, guiding the viewer’s eye across the fragmented figure. Lock’s deliberate distortion of the human form imbues the work with a sense of vulnerability and humor. The exaggerated features, from the expressive eyes to the almost childlike strokes of the hair, convey a chaotic yet affectionate reflection on familial dynamics. The bold blue bow, set against the dramatic composition, becomes a focal point, symbolizing a retained innocence amidst the chaos. Emotionally, the painting oscillates between light-hearted satire and poignant introspection. The title, Grandma Quit Drink'n, adds a narrative layer, suggesting a personal or communal struggle with transformation and self-improvement. The figure, though fragmented, exudes a sense of determination and resilience, as if embodying the act of breaking free from cycles of dependency or excess.Through this work, Lock invites the viewer to reflect on themes of familial relationships, personal growth, and the humor often found in life's imperfections. The tactile quality of the paint and the raw energy of the composition transform a seemingly simple narrative into a layered exploration of identity and transformation. This piece is a testament to Lock’s ability to balance abstraction and storytelling, creating art that is as emotive as it is visually compelling.