Lagrima D’ Oro

Self Portrait, Vito Akosta, Akosta, Art

A raw and personal exploration of pain, resilience, and the darkness we all face. Rendered in stark black and white, the absence of color emphasizes the simplicity and intensity of the emotions behind the work.

The aviators are a defining feature, concealing my eyes from the world. They act as a protective shield, a barrier between my vulnerability and the outside gaze. Behind the lenses lies a quiet storm, a complexity of emotions hidden from view but deeply felt.

A single gold tear runs down my face, and it holds the essence of this painting’s story. The tear symbolizes pain—unfiltered and deeply human. Gold was chosen intentionally for this detail, representing the immense value that pain carries. It is a testament to the transformation that occurs when we embrace suffering, learn from it, and allow it to shape us into something greater.

Every stroke of this painting reflects a journey into the darkness—a confrontation with the shadows within myself. The gold tear emerges as a beacon, reminding us that even in the depths of struggle, there is meaning, growth, and ultimately, value.

This piece is not just an image; it is a statement of survival, a celebration of resilience, and a reflection of the beauty that can be found in embracing the hardest parts of our story.