This three dimensional sculpture titled “Three Figures on a Bridge: Denial, Despair and Determination” is one woman’s depiction of her struggle with accepting her risk of cancer. This woman is Cynthia L. Green, who witnessed her mother and father simultaneously battle cancer. Unfortunately her father passed within a few months, unable to rejoice in his wife’s victory in overcoming the battle.
This figurine reminds me of the three monkey’s figurines with the implication of “see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil”. Unlike those, this piece really speaks to you and tells a story. When you look at it you can sense the time passing, even though it breaks down to metal and acrylic. The denial of the risk in Green’s life is felt through the way the figurine seems to be scratching for a way out. The middle figurine –despair—was perfectly illustrated in the seated position. Only after the despair and acceptance of her father’s death, mother’s chemotherapy struggles and the presence of cancer in her life was Green able to motivate herself to remain healthy.
The emotional theme here can translate into any situation in addition to cancer. Everyone has found themselves traveling the long river of denial, finally throwing themselves overboard in despair, only to swim to shore with determination. This sculpture is so simple, yet speaks volumes; it is a very relatable piece.
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