The Outlaws of Fate

In 2019, I created "Master of Puppets," an artwork that stirred deep emotions and provoked profound conversations among its viewers. This piece was more than just a painting; it was a culmination of personal experiences, reflecting my belief that art's primary duty is to elicit a response and engage viewers in a dialogue with themselves and with others.

Fast forward to 2023, and I've created a sequel that delves further into the themes I explored in "Master of Puppets." This new piece takes the marionettes, once buried in the sand, and propels them on a journey of self-liberation. Some have found the strength to free themselves, and in turn, are helping their fellow puppets rise from the ground, although some remain true to their beliefs and stay at home with their heads stuck in the sand.

The central figure, "Peregrine Man," continues to play a role in this evolving narrative. In many ways, he embodies my journey and my desire to extend a hand to those ready to embark on their path to self-discovery as an artist. Just as "Master of Puppets" probed questions about what or who set Peregrine Man on his quest, the sequel unravels the complexities of personal transformation and the profound role of individuals like Peregrine Man in the process.

The sequel is a reflection of my experiences in creating "Direct2Artist," a startup venture that brought forth both tremendous highs and deep lows. It was a rollercoaster ride that tested my limits and, in the end, imparted invaluable life lessons. The artwork symbolizes this journey, with Peregrine Man cutting the rope to free the marionette trying to break free from the sand. It encapsulates the idea that aiding someone is a two-way street, where both parties must contribute to make progress, and in turn, many others will follow the individual who led by example.

Numerous questions continue to linger. Was it worth trying to help those who weren't willing to help themselves? Should I have ignited the internal desire for self-liberation before providing tools? The journey led me to a profound understanding of the entrepreneurial path, for which I am genuinely grateful.

This sequel to "Master of Puppets" invites viewers to accompany me on a personal exploration of growth, self-liberation, and the intricate interplay between the desire to help and the readiness to be helped.

William Higginson