Nirmal Cheema

Scarlet Strangulation

This piece was created during a challenging semester that left me feeling emotionally suffocated. As a student, I faced significant academic pressures and felt overwhelmed by the demands to perform and produce outstanding work. The use of plastic and a monochromatic red palette symbolizes the confinement and alarm I experienced during this time. In the contemporary art landscape, this piece could be seen as part of a broader trend of using art as a means of expressing personal struggles. Furthermore, the use of a monochromatic palette and minimalistic composition aligns with minimalist and conceptual art movements.

Artist Statement

I am a STEM major (Biological Sciences) at the University of Calgary. To balance the demands of my academic life, I've found a creative outlet in art, pursuing a minor in Visual Studies and Art History. Through my artwork, I'm able to express my frustrations and emotions that accompany my studies. By combining my passions for STEM and art, I've discovered a unique perspective that enriches both my academic and creative pursuits.

How did you start your art practice?

I have been pursuing art as a hobby since the age of seven. As a charcoal pencil artist, I've always been captivated by the power of black-and-white contrasts to convey emotion. Recently, I've started to explore painting and have taken a monochromatic approach to elevate the feelings embedded in my pieces. The monochromatic technique has allowed me to create a sense of complexity that intensifies the emotional impact of my artwork. I'm excited to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity and exploring the dynamic possibilities of monochromatic painting.