Artists statement

The painting explores the mental health issues often faced by those who work at sea as a result of loneliness, isolation and illness, amongst other things. This seafarer’s face is made up of thousands of SOS Morse code symbols: dot,dot,dot dash,dash,dash dot,dot,dot. Morse code was used to signal to land that a ship or crew was in trouble. This seafarer is in trouble- his face says it all and speaks volumes. Mental health issues are often hidden when we look from afar but when we take the time to look closer and listen, the signs are often there.

Historical information

Lisa Carman entered this painting to the Maritime Art Prize 2019 and donated the artwork after the exhibition.

Physical description

Squared shape painting depicting a portrait in blue and dark tones of a sailor with a beard wearing a beanie. His face is made of dots using the SOS Morse code.