PURE ENLIGHTENMENT

2009, Oil on Linen, 100 x 100cm

Finalist, the 2010 City of Albany Art Prize

At the beginning of the eighteenth century Western civilisation underwent a profound change in its thinking. More or less simultaneously throughout Europe, the British Isles, Scandinavia & Russia, the old ideas concerning theocracy, oligarchy, aristocracy and the divine right of kings were replaced with new ideals based upon self-governance, natural rights, natural law, individual rights and the application of reason.

With a central emphasis on liberty, the ultimate result was the gradual granting of more freedom for the common people. This movement became known as The Age of Enlightenment. Although sometimes used in a secular context, the modern term continues its 18th century origin, referring to education. Beyond the obvious benefits of career and financial reward, it is through education in every aspect of the human endeavour - from scientific discoveries through environmental awareness to racial and gender relations - that defines the future for humanity. Thus with the application of reason and the pursuit of wisdom, Enlightenment can be seen as a beacon towards the unknown, lighting the path forward.