This powerful piece entwines torn pages from The Economist and the September 2021 issue of Maclean's. Needle is a poignant reflection of our time, the COVID years, and East Van — a community grappling with the very real consequences of addiction

A simple yet profound object, Needle carries with it a powerful duality. On one hand, it is a symbol of healing, used to administer medicine that saves lives and eases suffering. On the other, it represents destruction, a tool that can be exploited to deliver harmful narcotics, leading to dependency and despair. The Needle encapsulates the fragile balance between life and death, offering both salvation and ruin. It serves as a stark reminder of the choices that shape our lives and the fine line between creation and destruction.

The central white space of Needle features a Maclean's article that vividly humanizes the impact of the crisis. The encroaching border is geopolitical chaos represented by imagery from the Economist.

Alex’s studios have always been in East Van and he’s proud to work in this neighbourhood.

Original only - CAD 6,750

No prints

100% of the proceeds going to a (TBD) DTES charity