The Existence of Being

2016

Charcoal and pastels on paper

55 x 55 cm

 

Omniscience (infinite knowledge), omnipotence (unlimited power), omnipresence (present everywhere) and omnibenevolence (perfect goodness) is definitive in what differentiates “God” and men, and in a contemporary context, the notion of a “God” has become less and less relevant. Instead, with advancements in science and technology, a god complex has manifested itself in the hearts of men as the question of “what can mankind not do?” is constantly being challenged. With easy access to infinite knowledge through the Internet, unlimited power through advancements in weaponry and global presence through webcams and transportation, the answer to “do you believe in God?” is an inevitable and unanimous yes in the hearts and minds of men, while the answer to “who do you believe is God?” is left undecided.

 

Appropriating the universal mythological association of God with clouds, juxtaposed with the image of status and power in the form of a man in a suit, The Existence of Being seeks to provoke viewers to question who God is to them and the nature of their being in relation to it.

 

“God said to Moses, “I am who I am.”

   - Exodus 3:14a