Angelika Weinekötter

In "The Lizard Catcher," a painting inspired by the title of a poem by Didi Menendez, I explore the metaphysical interplay between human consciousness and the natural world, continuing my series "Dialog der Spezies." The composition captures a moment of intense connection between a young woman and a lizard, both suspended in an unspoken dialogue that transcends verbal communication. The woman's gaze, directed upward toward the lizard, reflects a mixture of curiosity, apprehension, and a profound recognition of the otherness that exists within the natural world.

The lizard, a symbol of adaptability, regeneration, and ancient wisdom, represents the primal forces of nature that are both alien and integral to the human experience. Its presence evokes questions of survival, instinct, and the deep-rooted connections that tie all living beings together, regardless of species. This encounter is not merely a physical one but also a metaphysical exchange, where the boundaries between observer and observed blur, leading to a contemplation of our place within the greater web of life.

The use of oil as a medium allows for a rich, textured portrayal of skin, light, and scales, emphasizing the tactile reality of this encounter while also inviting viewers to consider the layers of meaning beneath the surface. The contrasting light and shadow highlight the duality of existence—life and death, fear and fascination, known and unknown.