The Obsessional

The Obsessional by Desmond Morris
Artist
Desmond Morris
Date
1992
Style
Surrealism
Genre
Figurative
'The Obsessional' vividly explores the tumultuous mindset of limerence, capturing the intense infatuation associated with unreciprocated love. The painting portrays figures immersed in intrusive thoughts and idealization of a loved one, reflecting the emotional highs and lows—ecstasy and despair—that define this psychological state. Its figurative elements evoke raw human emotion, while surrealist touches evoke the disorienting nature of obsession, reminiscent of Surrealism. The artwork hints at the biological parallels between romantic love and addiction, portraying love as an almost compulsive, all-consuming experience.

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