See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil (Chris Smith) ($800)

This painting by Chris Smith is an eclectic and playful nod to the Three Wise Monkeys, which is a Japanese proverb, embodying the proverbial principle- see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.

Smith subverts the historical reference of this maxim, by depicting the monkeys stripped down to skull formation. Smith’s heightened use of texture and colour displayed within the piece, elevate the accuracy and realism of each skull.

The message, even though it conveys a humourous element, is even more significant in today’s world. Smith’s piece inspires us to think about the relevance and application of the ancient proverb in relation to ourselves and our ability to rise above negative thoughts and actions, turning a blind eye.

Learn more about See No Evil, Hear No Evil and Speak No Evil and the artist, Chris Smith.