2025

26H x 41.3W cm

Acrylic and pencil on paper

 

The Second Industrial Revolution (1870–1914), along with the advancement of machines and mass production, triggered the dehumanization of individuals working in factories. Inspired by Charlie Chaplin’s film Modern Times, I painted the factory workers in monochrome to portray how they were treated as lifeless machines. In this artwork, color symbolizes ego and individuality. Along the conveyor belt, the Little Chap, painted vividly and full of life, is shown merrily listening to a radio. The contrast between the Little Chap and the workers highlights the harsh reality of industrialization and how the loss of one’s character and passion can reduce a person to a monotonous, machine-like existence.