Hope Is The Last To Die

HOPE IS THE LAST THAT DIES

In 1976, I worked at a major Brazilian bank. As this profession hampered my artistic development, I decided to leave my position to dedicate myself exclusively to artistic activity. From then on, I started to live without a fixed salary and, therefore, criticism from family and friends began. I started to be classified as a tramp, even though I dedicated myself to drawing and painting for 16 hours a day. Many advised me to continue working in a bank and dedicate myself to the arts only after retirement.

There were so many criticisms that I decided to express my indignation through a painting. In it, I painted a young man seen from the back in order to represent anyone. He is in a position that represents sadness and is immersed in the immense darkness of the universe. Around him, some images of overexposed stars represent the paths that the young person can choose according to the suggestions received or offered by the social system. Above him is a mouth that represents the criticisms received and the suggestions for abandoning his dreams in order to obtain a monthly remuneration that gives them the material comfort that most people crave.

Far away and to the left at the top of the picture is a small star that clashes chromatically from the others. It represents the personal path sought by the artist and a large portion of the youth. The journey is difficult, but as the saying goes: hope is the last to die.

I never gave up on my dream of becoming a professional artist and I think I did well. After 43 years of profession, it is clear that the route is difficult, little is gained, but the happiness of doing what you like all the time is unmatched.

So young people, believe in your dreams and fight for them!

Walter Miranda - 2020