LUKE CORNISH
The Pity of War
Aerosol/Acrylic on Canvas
122 x 91cm
“The Pity of War” is a contemporary reinterpretation of Michelangelo’s iconic “La Pieta,” (English translation ‘The Pity’) reimagined to convey the profound sorrow experienced by mothers who have lost their children to the ravages of war.
The title is also a nod to English poet and Soldier Wilfred Owen (1893-1918) who was sadly Killed in action, one week to the hour of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War One (his mother cruelly notified of his death on Armistice Day).
Through this artwork, I endeavour to capture the enduring agony and anguish etched upon the faces of these grieving mothers, transcending time and place to resonate with audiences today. Inspired by the timeless themes of sacrifice and loss, “The Pity of War” confronts viewers with the devastating human toll of armed conflict, particularly on those left behind. The modernised interpretation emphasises the universality of maternal grief, evoking empathy and contemplation in equal measure.
By invoking the spirit of Michelangelo’s masterpiece, I seek to pay homage to the enduring power of art to illuminate the human condition. “The Pity of War” serves as a poignant reminder of the futility of violence and the urgent need for peace, encouraging reflection on the true cost of war and the imperative of compassion and understanding in our world.
