White Russian

Original size 8.5*11 © 2010 Alex Ledante

I tend to take things literally; so while listening to Marillion's White Russian, my imagination conjured a pale Soviet. Not only is she engulfed in a blizzard but also by her protection from the elements, symbolizing how easily we become imprisoned by our own defense mechanisms. At the same time, both the storm and her clothing are meant to evoke a sense of estrangement

Her dark eyes also indicate the depths of her isolation and personality. I've also used them to contrast against the many layers of snow as a metaphor for the depth of separation between her and the viewer. Hopefully I have also been able to portray her inner strength- Not only does she have the fortitude to endure alone but also the resolve to escape her emotional gulag