This new series of painted Vanitas ( Latin for Vanity ) depicting Memento Mori and other allegorial representations, communicate a message via the use of symbols, to depict the transitional stages of life. Each object having its own unique meaning, emphasises the emptiness and futility of worldly possessions. Strawinski creates her own narrative, using her collection of Antiquities to illustrate the fragilility and transcience of life.
Symbols and their meanings:
skull- memento mori message, the transience of life
hourglass- time is limited and passing
diamonds and pearls- the temporary nature of riches
bubbles- ephemeral, moment in time
silk ribbon- rare and exclusive, vanity
dice- chance, 'lady luck'