I Can't breath

“I Can’t Breathe” — by MAAS

This painting was born during one of the hardest moments of recent years, when the world felt heavy and every breath carried fear, anger, and uncertainty. I Can’t Breathe reflects that sense of being overwhelmed — not only by a pandemic, but by the violence and injustice faced by so many people around the world.

The title comes from the last words of George Floyd, which became the cry of the Black Lives Matter movement. Those words echoed across the globe, exposing the deep pain and inequality that people had been living with for far too long.

The exposed bones show vulnerability; the mask speaks of silence and survival. The sharp strokes and violent colours closing in on the figure reflect the pressure and chaos of that time — a world pushing from every side.

For me, this piece is a reminder of how fragile we are, but also how much strength it takes to stand, to stay present, to keep breathing when everything around us feels like it’s collapsing.

It’s a painting about pain, but also about resistance — a moment in history captured through colour, chaos, and truth.

"Technique painting: Acrylic, Oil, Chalk, Oil Pastels on Canvas and spray paint on canvas 40" by 32"