Ambiguous Loss / Augmented Life

About this show:

Some losses are straightforward, some are complex. My own personal losses have been exceedingly complex, leading me to rediscover the idea of “ambiguous loss.” This, according to a commonly accepted definition “occurs without a significant likelihood of reaching emotional closure or a clear understanding. This kind of loss leaves a person searching for answers, and thus complicates and delays the process of grieving, and often results in unresolved grief.” 

This series of paintings arose from the height of the pandemic and the many months since, each dealing with the ambiguous losses I have experienced and the ambivalence that often results. The mix of emotions and thoughts that are often hard to articulate have instead arrived on these canvases.

To draw the viewer yet further into the experience, I have created Augmented Reality versions of many of the paintings in this series. This utilizes the mobile app Artivive. To experience the Augmented Reality versions of the paintings, download the Artivive mobile app from your app store. Open the Artivive app and scan any painting with the “A” logo on the tag. The tags also have QR codes that will bring you to the painting’s web page for more.

On display at the gallery of Lexington Christian Academy in Lexington, MA. January and February 2023.

About the artist:

Bob Wiegers has worn many hats over the years, including visual artist, but none are more important than husband and dad. Others include: pastor, computer programmer, barista, social worker, teacher, dog dad, chicken farmer, musician, writer, and photographer. He is currently living in Southern Vermont. Find out more at bobwiegers.com