"Know Thyself” by Justin Wadlington, completed in December 2024. The original is a 48 x 60-inch acrylic painting framed in a sleek modern floating frame. Like his previous work, "I'm Invisible. I AM VISIBLE", the piece is surrounded by affirmations, adding depth and meaning to the overall piece.
At the center is a faceless figure in a hoodie, representing the search for self-identity and self-evolution. From the hoodie, a staircase made of stacked books rises. The blended mixture of pink, blue, and white clouds symbolizes the mind at it's highest peak, as the pages at the top are fanning out even further beyond. This creates a sense of transformation, growth, limitless potential, and Mastery. Two grey tattooed hands point toward the books and clouds, guiding the viewer’s focus toward knowledge and self-discovery. The background, a mix of soft pink and blue clouds, hints at more books, with the word war subtly visible—suggesting internal or external conflict in the journey toward understanding.
In the bottom right, a headless man enters a keyhole, symbolizing a passage, while another headless figure climbs the stairs, moving toward the hoodie and the wisdom it represents. The phrase “Know Thyself” is written across the bottom of the hoodie, with an arrow pointing to the word “now,” emphasizing that the time for self-awareness is now. The Latin translation, Temet Nosce, highlights the word ME in white, reinforcing that true self-knowledge begins within.
This piece invites viewers on a journey of self-exploration, reminding us that understanding who we are starts with the knowledge we seek and the actions we take in the present moment. The time is always NOW.
- Giclee printed on high-quality canvas
- Hand-gallery wrapped and framed over 1.5-inch wood
- All materials used are original and sustainable
- Made in USA
The original piece is available.