Humanity in the Insanity: A Reflection on Trauma and Healing Through Art
- Jeremy Faivre
- Sep 14, 2024
- 3 min read
As an artist, there are certain emotions and experiences that demand to be captured on canvas, even if they are difficult to express in words. My painting, Humanity In The Insanity, is one such piece. Measuring 16” by 20”, this acrylic work is brought to life on a round canvas—symbolizing the cyclical nature of human emotion and behavior. With this piece, I aim to explore the complex emotions that arise when individuals, deeply hurt and scarred by their own internal trauma, inflict pain on others.
The phrase “hurt people hurt people” serves as the core inspiration for this artwork. It’s a difficult reality to acknowledge, but one that we encounter far too often. The people who cause the most harm are often those who are battling their own inner demons. What they project outward is a reflection of their own suffering—a painful loop of trauma that continues until healing takes place.
In Humanity In The Insanity, I sought to explore the tension between this internal pain and the hope for healing. Through bold, chaotic strokes and dark hues, I aim to represent the turmoil that lives within a person caught in this cycle. But amidst the chaos, there are glimmers of softer colors—symbolic of compassion, empathy, and the possibility of transformation. The round canvas itself reflects the idea of cycles—cycles of pain, but also cycles of healing.
Musical Inspiration: “XO” by Stand Atlantic
This painting also draws inspiration from “XO” by the rock band Stand Atlantic. Music has always played a significant role in my creative process, and this particular song resonated with me deeply while working on the piece. The raw energy of the track, combined with its introspective lyrics, provided the perfect backdrop to explore themes of frustration, grief, turmoil, and self-destruction.
The song’s lyrics touch on emotional conflict and internal struggle, perfectly complementing the concept of hurt individuals hurting others. Just as the song balances aggression with vulnerability, I aimed to strike that same balance in the painting. The roughness of the brushstrokes contrasts with the tenderness of the message—showing how fragility and strength coexist within us all.
Here’s a link if you’d like to give the song a listen:
My goal with this piece is that viewers will not only see the insanity within the hurt but also the humanity. That even within the darkest moments, there exists a fragile possibility of redemption and healing. We must remember that those who hurt others are not lost causes but people in need of healing and understanding. While their actions may seem unforgivable, their pain is often the driving force behind them.
This painting serves as both a commentary and a hope—a hope that those caught in the cycle of hurting others can one day break free and find peace within themselves. There is an urgent need for compassion, not just for those who are hurt, but for those who have become the ones inflicting pain. After all, they too are human, and in recognizing their humanity, we open the door to healing and change.
Through Humanity In The Insanity, I hope to open a conversation about trauma, healing, and the cycles we find ourselves in. It is a reminder that, though the world may feel chaotic and full of pain, there is always room for empathy, healing, and transformation.
Final Thoughts
Art has a unique way of allowing us to confront these difficult subjects—where words may fall short, colors, textures, and forms can express the depth of our feelings. I invite you to sit with this piece, to feel its weight, and to consider the humanity in those who hurt others. By recognizing the pain they carry, perhaps we can move toward a world where healing is prioritized over hurt, and where empathy breaks the cycle.
As of writing, the original Humanity In The Insanity painting is currently available to purchase. Here’s the link to the online listing page:
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