TOUCH ME 2 - Propensity

The Resonance of Proximity

Propensity shifts the gaze from the body to the face, capturing the precise moment of facial recognition and magnetic attraction. In this work, Arjan Spannenburg documents the natural inclination of two souls toward one another, moving past the hesitation seen in earlier stages of the series. The proximity of the noses and the closed eyes of the figures create a sensory experience that the viewer can almost feel, the warmth of breath and the stillness of the air. This piece was created to honour the internal shift from wanting to be seen to finally being understood. It is a visualisation of the innate human propensity for love, stripped of all artifice and presented with a clarity that borders on the divine.

The Mirror of the Soul

The choice of monochrome is particularly effective here, as it removes the distractions of the environment and forces a confrontation with the pure emotion of the subjects. Spannenburg’s visual language in Propensity is one of equality and shared discovery. The subtle play of light on the skin highlights the individuality of the faces while the shared space between them speaks to a collective identity. This work holds a significant place in the art world as it elevates the queer experience to a level of classicism, suggesting that these moments of intimacy are as timeless and essential as any subject in the history of art. It is a profound meditation on the power of being present with another human being.