"The Creation of Bruin"

Last image in the triptych; see also part one and part two.

The finale of ~~Everett's~~ Bruin's journey concludes with his transition to a new identity. We've seen him tempted by the muscle bulls, follow them, grow with them, and now we get to see him join the ranks of the men he followed so loyally. At least, that's one interpretation.

This is a story about growth. People change, all relationships are transient, and thats normal. If you look closely, you might see the growing pains that comes with such a journey. I've used a couple composition tricks to mirror the first scene and emphasize how things have changed...but, I want you to decide what the story is.

Composition Check

The big change from the first image is that Bruin has traded places with the Dom. Not only is he centered in the composition, but all sight lines converge on him. (The perspective also converges just behind him). Bruin is also posed in the characteristic "S" of "Figura Serpentinata" (Serpentine Form) by doing a classic bodybuilding pose. This pose is used in judging to evaluate the size of a bodybuilder, or in this case being sized up by the Dom.

The triangle composition was very popular in Renaissance art. Pointing the triangle downwards creates a sense of instability and may symbolize a descent into darkness (first image). Pointed upwards can symbolize a strong foundation or ascension to heaven (last image). By flipping the triangle I wanted to show a positive outcome for Bruin.

Otherwise, the composition armatures are nearly identical. Rabatment of the Rectangle to create symmetry and highlight the contrasts between the two groups, while the golden ratio is used to draw the eyes through the image.

Environment Design

This is a real gym! David Barton's in New York, and before that it was The Limelight (a Studio 54-era club of similar fame). I've never been to New York, but I've heard stories about the gym and watched a documentary about the club while doing environment design research.

I've been told that this is one of the most exclusive gay gyms in New York. This is a gym where personal trainers moonlight as porn stars and live DJs mix while you lift.

It sounds incredible; a gym that's a gay club and it's inside a church? When I learned about it, I started modeling right away. There aren't many photos of the interior, but I was able to replicate the gothic arches and rose window. I hope that it is recognizable.

Thank you for supporting my work

I hope the artist's notes are enjoyable. If you like the renders they are available for sale as prints from my store:

The Crossing at 7th and Stonewall

The Indulgence of Camp

Outtake: highland bull

Hustlin' Hog's Rear View

It Came From Behind

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