In the realm of contemporary art, where the lines between reality and imagination blur, few figures captivate the attention quite like Joan Severance. Her enigmatic paintings, fueled by a potent blend of symbolism, surrealism, and psychological introspection, have left audiences spellbound for decades. One particularly compelling motif that runs through Severance’s work is the “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” trio, often depicted as three monkeys, each covering their eyes, ears, and mouth. But what exactly does this iconic theme signify in Severance’s artistic universe?
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To unravel the true meaning of Severance’s “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” imagery, we must delve into the artist’s background and the cultural and philosophical context that informs her work. Born in the mid-20th century, Severance witnessed a world grappling with profound social and political upheaval, from the Cold War to the Vietnam War, and the anxieties and uncertainties of the time heavily influenced her artistic expression. Her paintings, often infused with a sense of unease and vulnerability, reflect the struggle to make sense of a world that seemed increasingly chaotic and unpredictable.
A Multifaceted Symbol: Beyond the Literal
The Origins of the “Three Wise Monkeys”
The “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” motif, commonly known as the “Three Wise Monkeys,” has fascinating roots in Japanese art and philosophy. The original proverb, “Mizaru, Kikazaru, Iwazaru,” dates back to the 17th century Edo period, and it was originally associated with a specific Shinto shrine, Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the first Tokugawa shogun. The monkeys were believed to embody principles of wisdom and virtue, urging individuals to protect themselves from negative influences by abstaining from witnessing evil, gossiping, and spreading harmful words.
Joan Severance’s Artistic Interpretation
Severance, profoundly influenced by Eastern philosophy and aesthetics, draws upon this rich history but reframes the “Three Wise Monkeys” within a contemporary context. Rather than presenting the monkeys as exemplary models of virtue, Severance suggests that the act of seeing, hearing, and speaking can be profoundly painful and isolating. Her paintings often depict the monkeys as figures trapped in a state of perpetual denial, their physical gestures symbolic of a deeper emotional and psychological turmoil.
For instance, consider Severance’s seminal work, “The Blindness of Silence,” where the three monkeys are rendered in stark black and white, their expressions vacant and devoid of life. The muted colors and the monkeys’ blank gazes suggest a world devoid of meaning and purpose, where both observation and communication have become oppressive burdens. The monkeys are not merely obscuring their senses but rather, severing themselves from the external world, attempting to escape the pain of perception and the responsibility of speech.
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The Power of Silence: A Complex and Ambiguous Response
Severance’s use of the “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” motif raises profound questions about the role of silence in a world rife with suffering and injustice. On the one hand, the monkeys’ silence can be interpreted as a form of self-preservation, a way of shielding oneself from the overwhelming horrors of the world. But on the other, the decision to turn a blind eye, deaf ear, and mute voice can also be perceived as enabling oppression and perpetuating cycles of violence.
A Critique of Complicity and Inaction
In Severance’s work, the “Three Wise Monkeys” often become a metaphor for complicity in the face of societal inequities and abuses. By refusing to see, hear, or speak, the monkeys embody a form of collective amnesia, a collective apathy that allows injustice to flourish. They become a stark reminder of the insidious and often unintentional ways in which we can contribute to the perpetuation of suffering.
The Search for Meaning and Connection
Yet, Severance’s paintings are rarely purely pessimistic or cynical. She often imbues her works with a subtle glimmer of hope, suggesting that even within the darkest of spaces, the human spirit can find meaning and connection. In some of her “Three Wise Monkeys” paintings, the monkeys are depicted in a more ambiguous pose, their hands covering their senses but their faces betraying a flicker of curiosity or even a hint of a smile. This subtle shift in expression suggests that silence is not simply a form of denial but rather a necessary pause, a moment of introspection that allows for deeper understanding and empathy.
Beyond the Canvas: The Legacy of Joan Severance’s “Three Wise Monkeys”
Joan Severance’s “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” paintings are not merely decorative pieces to be admired but powerful works of art that challenge viewers to confront their own complicity in the world. They invite introspection, prompting us to question our own roles in maintaining the status quo, whether consciously or unconsciously. The profound impact of Severance’s art is evident in the fact that her “Three Wise Monkeys” motif has transcended the realm of fine art and become a potent symbol in popular culture and social discourse.
A Cultural Icon: From Art to Social Commentary
Severance’s “Three Wise Monkeys” have become a ubiquitous icon in popular culture, appearing in everything from films and television shows to tattoos and graffiti. They serve as a visual shorthand for the complexities of human behavior, embodying both the desire to shield oneself from the pain of the world and the need to engage and act. The motif has also been adopted by activists and social movements, serving as a call to action, urging individuals to open their eyes, listen to the voices of the marginalized, and speak out against injustice.
A Perpetual Inquiry: The Ongoing Relevance of Severance’s Work
Joan Severance’s art, particularly her “Three Wise Monkeys” paintings, remains profoundly relevant even today, as the world grapplees with a seemingly endless stream of complex and challenging issues. Her works serve as a reminder that while the act of seeing, hearing, and speaking can be painful, it is also a necessary step towards greater understanding, empathy, and ultimately, positive change. Severance’s “Three Wise Monkeys” are not simply a warning or a condemnation but an invitation to engage with the world, to confront uncomfortable truths, and to use our voices, however small, to create a more just and equitable world.
Joan Severance See No Evil Hear No Evil
Conclusion
Joan Severance’s “See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil” paintings stand as a testament to the power of art to challenge, provoke, and inspire. Through her unique and thought-provoking interpretation of this iconic motif, Severance forces us to confront the uncomfortable truths about ourselves and our place in the world. Her work serves as a constant reminder that while silence can be tempting, it is through active engagement, mindful observation, and courageous communication that we can create a world truly worthy of our collective attention and care.
