Tension by Alyssa Guillén

This illustration is meant to represent the struggle of trying to be perfect. Constantly performing and walking the line between good and bad. Being so close to what you’ve been working for yet constantly aware that one slip could mean losing everything. I guess it’s basically about the struggles of anxiety too. I made the subject a ballerina because I always respected and admired how strong and beautiful they have to be while performing, while also appearing flawless. I also thought an athletic musculature would look interesting in such dramatic lighting, while the leotard also showing her vulnerability. Shes not fully in costume, she’s practicing and sharpening her skills. Her drive for success and fear of failure keeping her steady on the oh so thin line she performs on.