PRETIUM SERIES - The Depravity of Tantalus

Pretium is the Latin word for "price" or "cost". The three large paintings in this series feature figures from mythology that for offences against the gods were sentenced to eternal punishments befitting their crimes.

The depravity of Tantalus, latex paint on canvas, 55x60", 2019

For abominable crimes, Tantalus was sentenced to an eternity of deprivation. Standing in a pool of water with a fruit tree above, Tantalus can neither reach the fruit nor drink the water - both retreat from his grasp continually. His name has become synonymous with something that one cannot acquire.