a concept

MILITIA

I am an artist, not a fashion designer or salesman. When the idea to add a little swag to the artist shoppe weaseled its way into my plans, the only way to approach it was as an artist. This felt a little tricky though. After all, my artwork is highly emotional and often rooted in some pretty heavy topics. This discouraged me but then I realized something. None of us can avoid the harsher realities of life and that makes somewhat melancholy looking art relatable, right?
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ilitia is not just product, it is a concept. Three paintings have been chosen for this project (brother, sister, and resume). All of them are symbolic of common crossroads in life. (brother) Having to make a life changing decision, (​sister) realizing unhealed wounds are keeping you from living fully in the ​​present, and (resume) reaching rock bottom with no hope for the future; in desperate need of help . Welcome to the human condition.

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Forks in the road are an opportunity for introspection and growth. As depicted in the paintings, you are a heap on the ground today but if you look closely, the hints of a better tomorrow are right in front of you. Hardship can be forged into custom armor for future combat. Making tough decisions is hard but the courage gained is invaluable. Living in the past is a trap but you can choose to honor it as lessons learned. Get better at riding out the lows by acknowledging that it is okay to accept or ask for help. Inner strength is something that grows whether earned, given, or borrowed.

mi·li·tia /məˈliSHə/ n
1. a body of citizens mobilized in service of their community in times of emergency
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​It often feels as if we are losing touch with our ability to relate to one another. This is alarming. It is time to form a militia. Let the messages within the artwork be a reminder that we are much more alike than we are different. Life is a shared experience. With this understanding in our hearts we can band together, as human beings, in action against the chaos. The Militia Collection is about starting the conversation. Strolling around with a uniquely morose image across your chest can be a real conversation starter. You can tell those who comment that you purchased it from this really moody artist who, more than anything, wants to bring a little more conversation and empathy to the table we call life. I cannot help but feel that an interesting chat, triggered by an artsy article of clothing, is somehow charming and good. Perhaps, in some small way, it could help make the world a better place. A lofty hope but a well-intentioned one.

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 Thank you for reading. You know artists. We are always feeling so misunderstood. Thought I would try and explain myself, but just a little. There has to be some mystery. You should have fun interpreting the art for yourself too.

Check out the Militia Collection.
Read the product descriptions for more about the art and militia concept.

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