“The Center Holds”

 The Center Holds” refers to a phrase used in a poem “The Second Coming” by William Butler Yeats. In the poem the line says “ the center cannot hold” to express a sense of societal breakdown and chaos. The poem is known for its pessimistic tone. In contrast, “the center holds” is a hopeful phrase that suggests that despite the challenges of societal unrest, there is a core of stability and unity that remains intact.  Three stages in development of the 24” x 24”, oil on canvas painting.