About

Upon first sight of this painting, we are taken aback by a whirlwind of figures. With closer observation, however, we see that they are engaged in a hopeless struggle against a force beyond their control.

The scene becomes increasingly ominous once we realize that the figures are falling into the abyss of a yawning pit. The Artist’s use of brilliant red and orange colors evokes the feeling of a fiery furnace.

John Varriano’s capacity for creating a sense of movement in his work is clearly on display. We can visualize a central point on the canvas, about which the entire scene rotates, like blood, as it circles a drain. The helpless creatures are on a perpetual carnival ride of the damned.

The paint is applied to the canvas with explosive force, yet decisive control.

There is a primitive and tribal quality to this work. Many of the faces of the figures are portrayed as masks, and others are blurred. The Artist shows us that with the onset of damnation, the unfortunate souls have each lost their identities. They will never again be what they once were.

Despite the startling and disturbing subject of the work, the painting undoubtedly possesses a captivating quality. Many of the compelling aspects of the creative process are on display as Varriano presents a contrast of drama and beauty.