Toe: Surreal Paintings by Beau White

Australian artist Beau White has created a series of oil paintings entitled “Toe” which explore the relationship between our memories, the physical body and ideas of the self. In his early 20s, Beau was diagnosed with cancer and underwent multiple surgeries, including the amputation of his big toe. This experience inspired him to create a series of works that memorialise his missing toe, giving it an existence and mythology beyond its relegation to medical waste.

Beau’s paintings are surreal and intriguing, depicting his missing toe in various scenarios such as being held by a foot wearing a fancy dress or camouflaged among toy soldiers. He uses classical painting techniques to represent his toe in a way that is whimsical and imaginative. By embracing loss through art, Beau creates an emotional connection between himself and others who have experienced similar traumas.

The “Toe” series is a powerful reminder that art can be used to process difficult emotions and experiences. It also serves as an example of how creativity can be used to transform pain into something meaningful and memorable.

More art on the grid Visit Beau’s website