The Inexhaustible

Year: 2018
Size: 128X89.6
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas

This work was a finalist in the Kennedy Prize 2019.
 
Susan Hutchinson is the founder of the ‘Prosecute; Don’t Perpetrate’ campaign to end impunity for sexual violence in armed conflict. Susan lives with a chronic disabling illness called Myalgic Encephalitis. Everyday noises like lawnmowers, traffic and crowds cause her to lose physical control of her limbs and cognitive function.
 
Her condition means that she can’t fully participate in the traditional workforce because she can’t commit to being able to work in advance. However, she spends all her limited energy fighting for better understanding of and conditions for a range of underprivileged people and issues. This includes intersectional feminism, food security, the environment and disability.
 
This painting captures Susan’s Inexhaustible spirit and determination, but also her childlike innocence in the face of witnessing extreme brutality. Painted using my signature style, the work has brown hues that change slightly depending on the light source.