Aziz Anzabi

This painting is a part of Anzabi’s “don't judge me” series inspired by Jerry Saltz. Anzabi deliberately uses Saltz to convey his message as he is a creator and has had a positive impact on the art community. He symbolizes intellect and wisdom highlighted by his glasses. The marbled features once again demonstrate how a person’s outer appearance impacts how people treat them. In comparison to the stone like features the hands are very much human showing that Anzabi has not fully dehumanized him to show that we are all the same regardless of our outer appearance. The small trees in the background highlight that the more we connect with nature the more we can understand ourselves and each other. Furthermore, Saltz here is dressed in very formal wear highlighting the pressure on individuals to abide to social norms of what is deemed appropriate. For example, having tattoos is deemed as a hinderance to getting a job. Therefore, Anzabi criticizes society’s focus on external appearances and encourages individuals to embrace each other's differences.

Oil on canvas
102cm x 66cm