LUAP's latest creation, "Hope" graces Bateman’s Row in Shoreditch. This 12m x 6m mural depicts The Pink Bear slumped on a staircase, with a bouquet of flowers, and a blue background evoking a powerful sense of emotion.
Despite its title, "Hope," the portrayal of The Pink Bear seems to convey a profound absence of hope, appearing instead as sad and heartbroken. This intentional dissonance prompts viewers to explore the complexities of hope amidst adversity, inviting reflection on the juxtaposition between the title and the bear's emotive state.
The artist suggests that hope can be perceived in two contrasting ways, a concept encapsulated in the image. While The Pink Bear's demeanour exudes a sense of hopelessness and sadness, the presence of the flowers conveys a counterbalancing sense of optimism. This juxtaposition invites viewers to contemplate the complex interplay between despair and possibility, illustrating the nuanced nature of hope itself.
“In the abyss of despair, hope morphs into a hollow, hopeless notion.
When all hope is extinguished, the very concept of hope becomes unbearable.
Endlessly hoping for a dawn that never breaks only deepens the sense of hopelessness.
With nothing left, we anchor everything onto the frail vessel of hope.
In the throes of desperation, we pray and hope, seeking divine intervention, despite the overwhelming sense of hopelessness.
We can be offered hope by an external force, only to have it taken away again without hesitation or remorse.”
The latter perspective carries a more optimistic tone, likely contributing positively to our well-being.
“Hope is a glimmer of possibility in the darkest of times that glows inside.
Hope is a seed, waiting for the right time.
Hope is refusing to surrender, even when the odds are stacked against us.
Hoping against hope, we muster the strength to give it one more shot.
Hope is the courage to believe that things will eventually change for the better.
Hope is having faith in oneself and the resilience to keep pushing forward.
Above all, hope is the belief that a brighter future awaits, just around the corner.”
Body language is integral to LUAP's work, with the deliberately expressionless bear serving as a focal point. LUAP employs various poses and props in his creations to enrich the storytelling aspect of his art. Working primarily from photos, he intricately weaves narratives through his compositions, utilising the bear's demeanour and gestures to convey layers of meaning.
“I opted against giving the pink bear a fixed facial expression to avoid imposing a specific mood onto the images. Instead, I aimed for the bear to serve as a mirror, reflecting the personal emotions of the viewer and allowing them to connect with the work on a deeper level.
Remarkably, the artist completed this expansive mural in just three days, a stark departure from the pace of creation typical in his London studio, where his canvases often require months to reach completion. This accelerated process underscores the artist's adaptability and showcases their ability to translate their artistic vision onto a grand scale within a condensed time frame.
“ I wanted this mural to resonate more closely with my studio techniques but over a shorter time frame. Previous murals I've painted felt disconnected from my oil paintings, lacking depth and layers. So I sought to infuse this piece with greater dimension. By using methods closer to those on my canvas, I thinned the paint and let it cascade down the wall, mirroring the washes I use on my canvas. Layering and building depth, I worked to achieve a cohesive integration.”
