Today I'll Be Myself

In the painting "Today I'll Be Myself" by Daiva Staškevičienė, the artwork presents a compelling and visually intricate portrayal of identity and self-expression. It features a portrait of a woman with a solemn and introspective expression. Her gaze is direct and seems to hold a depth of unspoken thoughts.The central figure is adorned with a vibrant red cloak and a head covering in the same hue, invoking a sense of boldness and the importance of being seen. Behind her head, a golden halo reminiscent of religious iconography surrounds her but, instead of a smooth uniform ring, this halo is decorated with miniature dramatic and whimsical scenes. The halo includes elements such as small figurative forms that appear to represent different faces or masks, linked by a delicate chain. These could symbolize various aspects of personality or different roles that one might assume.To her side floats an imaginative device or construct resembling a whimsical creature, composed of elements that include a bird, a mask, and mechanical parts. This creature seems to be controlled by the rod the woman holds, hinting at themes of control and the modulation of one's persona or spirits.Overall, the composition and the symbolic use of imagery in Daiva Staškevičienė's painting beautifully articulate a narrative on individuality, the layers of self that we present to the world, and the internal control we exert over these expressions.