Hypergolic

hypergolic |ˌhīpərˈgälik| adj. (of a rocket propellant) igniting spontaneously on mixing with another substance. Each of us holds within our heart some core sense of Self that is merely waiting for a congruent Environment in which to soar. When these two mix properly, a visceral reaction is ignited and we cannot help but launch ourselves towards our own unknowns. This activation and exploration is something desired by all, and it is our duty to encourage it in our fellow humans. ----- 20" x 36" Plywood, Paint, Embroidery Neil Jansen - 2013 ---- Thanks for checking out my stuff! While I have that nifty "official" description up there ^^ I thought I'd add a little bit about my own motivation for the piece. Both the title and the visual allusion to a launching rocket are references to my past career in aerospace as a mechanical design engineer on rocket engines, which I have left behind in a strange and enlightening transition to a life path that better matches my passions. As with the dichotomy of the career I had and the career I wanted, an analogous struggle was present with my sexuality. The realization that these situations were so similar led me to strive for a more fundamental fulfillment from my life -- one where I focus on matching the Internal desires with the External actions, and where I also help others do the same. The title, "Hypergolic", represents this idea of the Universe aligning to mix my own passions with the circumstances around me. One cannot soar while chained to the ground with internal struggle (unless you're one of those crazy emo famous artists throughout history…), yet the world must also accept and enable you. Also, I like sewing and thought a heart would be fun :D