Beyond the Limits: 37 Nightmares

For this edition of Beyond the Limits I wanted to take a look at the painting by Clive Barker entitled, 37 Nightmares. I usually try to get some deep introspection when I examine one of Clive’s paintings, but for this one it’s obvious that Barker only wants to scare the crap out of you. And since it’s so close to Halloween I wanted to have a little fun. So I’ll keep things short and simple here.

37 Nightmares reminds me of a hideous being straight out on the mind of classic horror writer H.P. Lovecraft. The image is filled with madness and insanity which are two very important themes when exploring Lovecraft’s world. I love the way Barker uses color (or lack of) here to create a somber and unsettling effect on the eyes. The light blue gives the creature a more organic texture that gives the image a more realistic and tangible feel. It looks like the thing is in the process of transformation? Or imitation? Maybe both?

You can have a lot of fun looking and making up your own stories with this painting. Its a disturbing piece for sure and an image that makes you want to leave the light on at night. Oh shit, the lights just went out! What’s that squishy sound I hear?