The most recent South Carolina Review issue is nearly ready for release. Before that day, here’s a first look into the issue’s cover art, complete with commentary from the artist.
White Noise by Mason Engler (He/Him)
Traditionally a symbol of independence and mystery, a black cat sits in an intimate space, inviting the viewer to engage with the scene while subtly subverting expectations of solitude. Often thought of as a place for privacy and routine, the bathroom becomes a moment of connection through the companionship of the cat, turning this mundane setting into one of a shared presence and introspection.
The familiarity of the bathroom highlights a strange intimacy with the animal as it joins the viewer even into the most private areas of life. The scene encourages reflection on the boundaries, or lack thereof, between humans and animals. Even within a constructed space and a place that is often overlooked, the presence of another living being introduces a reminder of our interdependence with the natural world in everyday life.
About the Artist
Mason Engler is a visual artist and painter working with oil paints since 2021. He currently resides in Charleston, South Carolina after graduating from Clemson University. Initially inspired by the rich biodiversity of the Lowcountry and its interconnected ecosystems, Mason’s recent work reflects a nuanced shift toward a deeper exploration of human connection and mutually dependent relationships with the surrounding world. Finding inspiration in everyday interactions and the environments that shape them, he captures these fleeting moments to shape the narratives that emerge in his creative process. His work transforms the familiar into something slightly askew yet undeniably relatable.
