1.No skin

Acrylic paint and charcoal on paper

Unit 4 Art Making and Exhibiting

Using a combination of acrylic paint and charcoal, ‘No Skin’ communicates the inner despair, pain and isolation of living with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Regarding subject matter, the piece depicts an isolated male figure, surrounded by a swarm of insidious, blood-red hands that appear to be descending upon him. The heavy use of darkness, which is violently contrasted by the different shades of red suggests themes of emotional suffering, persecution and rage. Whilst observing this work, it’s difficult not to notice clear parallels between the post-impressionist works of Edvard Munch. The use of vibrant, swirling brushstrokes is characteristic of the post-impressionist style and was used to express the subjective psychological and emotional states of the artist. In saying this, Franklin’s artwork showcases his personal style, which has routs stemming from the works of Van Gogh and Munch, allowing him to communicate a deep sense of despair and melancholy. ​

Whilst the artwork may mean different things to viewers in their individual components, Franklin’s intention was to create a visual representation of his inner psychological and emotional experiences as a person with Aspergers Syndrome, which is now referred to as Level 1 ASD. The condition, which is marked by odd behaviours and difficulties with understanding social cues often results in a high degree of interpersonal isolation and loneliness. This can be seen in the dejected expression of the figure, as well as the swirling shades of blood-red, which assist in creating a sense of anxiety and turbulence. Building on this, the surrounding waves of black and cobalt blue suggests a sense of impending doom but could also be interpreted as a depiction of sensory overload, a symptom which the artist frequently experiences. Within the darkness are many extending hands, reaching for the figure in a malicious manner. This represents both the deep-set feelings of otherness and isolation from people, as well as the almost pain that they directly or indirectly inflict. The title, whilst not a literal representation of the work’s meaning, explores the notion that a person can be mentally or emotionally wounded to the point where there is ‘No skin’ left to shed, leaving only a husk.