Inner resistance: when feelings are on the verge of surfacing
- Ly Pham Suter
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
My work, 'Inner Resistance', which is part of the Metamorphosis series, explores the tension between inner drive and outer restraint. It depicts an emotional battle that rages beneath the surface — raw, intense and almost uncontrollable.
The explosions of colour in vibrant red, black and pink symbolize an inner self that is difficult to control. These are feelings that rebel against the status quo. They are an impulsive will for change and liberation that is still held back by reason, fear or external circumstances. The energy is palpable — it flows from the centre of the picture as if about to burst forth at any moment, yet something holds it back.
Head in the shadow
A special moment occurred during the opening of my exhibition, 'In the Realm of Abstraction', on 3 July 2025. An art lover pointed out something that I hadn't been aware of until then. In the top left corner of the painting, he recognised the faint outline of a man, hidden in shadow yet powerful in its effect.
I was immediately fascinated by this interpretation. For him, the supposed head became the central figure — an inner entity that ignites all the tumultuous emotions in the painting. Perhaps it is the inner force that drives change yet remains hidden. To me, this is a wonderful example of how non-figurative art can be perceived so vividly and individually.
Metamorphosis: The process of change
As with every piece in this series, 'Inner Resistance' explores the concept of transformation. Here, however, the change is still stagnant. It is palpable and desired, but not yet visible. It is the moment before upheaval, full of tension and ambivalence. It is a psychological limbo in which anything seems possible, but nothing has happened yet.
What do you see? What do you feel?
Perhaps this image reflects you. It may also stimulate you to confront your own inner resistance.
🖼️ "Inner Resistance" is on display at the Kunstwerkstube gallery at Bäderstrasse 28 in Baden until July 13, 2025.
🕓 Opening hours: Thu–Fri: 2:00–6:00 p.m., Sat: 12:00–6:00 p.m., Sun: 12:00–5:00 p.m.
🎉 Closing event: July 13, 2:00–5:00 PM