The work is inspired by the 'Symphony of Sorrowful Songs' by Polish composer Henryk Górecki. The abstract painting explores the relationship between painting and music.

Górecki's music, steeped in Catholic symbolism, touches upon my own religious upbringing, whilst his use of somber tones adds a sense of personal lamentation. The painting has an ominous and foreboding element to reflect, on the one hand, the instability and uncertainty marring the 4 years of the 45th American presidency, whilst on the other, Britain's own turmoil as my country grapples with Brexit. Citizens on both sides of the Atlantic have described feelings of despair and resentment which has motivated them to come together in groups to protest their plight. My own circumstances, being far away from home, have exacerbated my feelings of frustration as I have looked on as a bystander as events have unfolded. My painting, has helped me articulate my own struggles within the current situation. I have left the viewer to decide whether the central figure with arms raised heavenward is a symbol of grief and supplication overcome by the conditions of the time or, alternatively, that of relief and hope.