- titled: "Enigma" (lower left corner)
- signed: "Secunda" (lower right corner)
- medium: serigraph with nine colors and one blend printed by
Jeff Davis in eleven passes, with airbrush and hand coloring by
the artist
- dimensions: image size: 25" x 17 1/2"; paper size: 30" x
22"
- edition: 75 prints, numbered 1/75 to 75/75
- date published: May 1994
- print number: 94-04-075
- published by: Pierian Press Fine Art Editions
Introduction, by C. Edward Wall
At first glance, "Enigma" appears to be a simple work consisting
of two outlined figures. Through the sophisticated use of line,
color modulations (e.g., ochre on ochre, blue on blue), and strong
contrasts, the artist has created a powerful, symbolic work about
the human spirit.
Symbolically, the amulet, an object often worn around the neck
to ward off evil, represents the "feelings of the heart" - those
cultural values that are so deeply ingrained that they form the
very foundation of our thought processes. The wand, used for
working magic, is a symbol of our wishes for the future - the destiny
which we "hold in our hands" and determine by the decisions we make
and the relationships we choose to build.
In "Enigma", an ugly mask is raised, revealing beauty beneath.
(The human spirit is often puzzling and mysterious.) Behind a rough
persona a kind heart may reside. An act of apparent altruism may be
directed by ulterior motives. The outward image frequently does not
reveal the spirit of the person.
The relationship between the two figures evokes multiple
interpretations. On one hand, the dominant "seated" figure can be
seen as suppressing an alter ego, acknowledging learned control
over basal instincts and needs. On another level, the expulsion of
the "shadow soul" by the central figure represents an inevitable
Faustian moment - the life/death or body/soul separation that is
universally experienced.
These are a few of the fundamental concepts embodied in
"Enigma", a powerful artistic statement and metaphorical study
which at once explores, discovers, recognizes, and, finally,
celebrates the "magic" and the richness of the human spirit.
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