Whatever I Heard, I Kept It To Myself (2020) Painting by Anton Terziev

Anton Terziev's oil painting "Whatever I Heard, I Kept It To Myself And Now a New Fear is Born" is an evocative, haunting work that plunges into the realms of psychological tension and emotional restraint. The abstract nature of the painting invites the viewer to interpret its meaning on an emotional and subconscious level. Its title alone suggests an intense, introspective journey where silence breeds new fears, an introspection that is captured vividly through the raw intensity of the brushstrokes.
The composition, with its swirling, fragmented texture, draws attention to the central form, which seems to hint at a contorted or distorted figure. The dominance of deep reds, whites, and dark browns in the color palette creates a sense of emotional turmoil. The contrasting hues not only evoke a visceral response but also suggest an inner struggle—perhaps one of repressed emotions or a traumatic experience now rising to the surface. The thick impasto technique employed by Terziev adds texture to the painting, making it feel almost sculptural, giving it a physical presence that enhances the intensity of the scene. The rough, aggressive application of paint enhances the overall feeling of discomfort and anxiety.
The abstract form seems to represent a figure or face, yet it is fragmented and obscured, as though deliberately hidden or suppressed. This ambiguity invites the viewer to confront their own projections, questioning the nature of the painting’s subject. The title, "Whatever I Heard, I Kept It To Myself And Now a New Fear is Born," emphasizes silence, repression, and the mental weight of keeping things bottled up. The fear that is "born" could represent the consequences of internalized emotions—how neglecting to voice one’s feelings can lead to the formation of internal anxieties that gradually become overwhelming.
The heavy use of reds and whites may symbolize a deep internal conflict between emotional or physical pain and an attempt at cleansing or purification. The act of keeping something to oneself, as referenced in the title, might also suggest a suffocating isolation, where fear becomes the inevitable byproduct of emotional suppression.
Terziev’s technique is raw, expressive, and deeply personal. The use of thick, tactile brushstrokes creates a textured surface that not only engages the eye but also adds to the emotional impact of the work. The dynamic and energetic movement in the brushstrokes hints at an uncontrollable force, perhaps symbolizing the way suppressed emotions eventually break through in unexpected ways.
The forms in the painting are distorted, and the aggressive layering of color creates an unsettling and almost visceral presence. By not fully defining the figure, Terziev allows the viewer to step into the work and make their own interpretation, transforming the piece from something singular into a universal exploration of inner fear, tension, and the psychological costs of silence.
Overall Impression: "Whatever I Heard, I Kept It To Myself And Now a New Fear is Born" is a deeply emotional and complex painting. Terziev uses color, texture, and form to create a raw, unfiltered depiction of the emotional consequences of repression and isolation. The work challenges the viewer to confront their own fears and consider the impact of silence and unspoken thoughts on the human psyche. It is a powerful commentary on the internal battles many people face, making it not just a visual experience but an emotional one. Through this piece, Terziev demonstrates an exceptional command of oil painting as a medium for both expressive and conceptual exploration.

Part of No Time For Losers series of drawings, object, photography and paintings (2019-)

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Mortal KombatMixed Martial ArtsContemporary ArtAnton TerzievColiflowerear