The Hidden Battle (2026) Original Oil Painting by James Earley

This painting holds special meaning for me, as it reflects my journey of self reflection. As I have grown older, I have looked back at my childhood and realised how challenging it was for me. During that time, I struggled with mental health issues, and my memories of childhood, which should have been filled with joy, are instead tangled with fear and anxiety.

One such memory was my time on a beach in Spain. I was in the most beautiful place, everyone around me looked so happy and content, yet I was full of fear. I do not know what the fear was but I felt on edge, always thinking that something bad was about to happen as I did not deserve to be enjoying myself. I imagined my self protected, separate, not really there, just as the boy with the big coat on sat on a wooden chair that casts no shadow as in the far corner a monster disguised as a clown judged my every mood, ready to pounce. This was a world full of fear, a world that so many people live in.

I hope that when someone views this painting they see this invisible battle that goes on in so many peoples minds and they see hope and courage that we can find deep within ourselves. I hope that the viewer feels it.

Materials used:

oil on canvas

Details:

• Oil painting on Canvas
• One of a kind artwork
• Size: 90 x 60 x 4cm (unframed) / 90 x 60cm (actual image size)
• Ready to hang
• Signed on the front
• Style: Photorealistic
• Subject: People and portraits

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