To Enter or Not

This is one of Reinike's symbolic Arch Series paintings

Reinike's roots in New Orleans and the celebration of Mardi Gras sets the stage for this painting . The bright colors of the revelers provide a striking contrast to the darker areas of the background, creating a sense of tension and imbalance. The shield with the masks of Comedy and Tragedy symbolizes the constant interplay between emotions and outward appearances. This contrast creates a dynamic tension, suggesting a sense of joyous celebration alongside underlying complexities. The figures in the dark background move towards the arch of blue sky, suggesting a symbolic passage or a search for deeper understanding and spiritual enlightenment beyond physical pleasures.