In Lean-on Me, Adam Young presents a captivating and symbolic scene featuring two traditional Newfoundland fishing stages, precariously suspended between towering cliffs. These iconic red fishing stages, typically used for storing gear and drying fish, lean towards one another, supported by a web of taut ropes that anchor them to the rugged cliffs on either side. The vibrant red of the stages contrasts against the moody green sky, creating a striking visual that emphasizes their shared resilience.
The fishing stages, balanced mid-air, seem to symbolize the strength and interdependence of coastal communities. The delicate yet sturdy ropes connecting the stages to the cliffs highlight the sense of connection and support that binds people in these remote areas. The dramatic cliffs, painted in deep greys, create a sense of isolation, while the closeness of the stages portrays the reliance on one another for stability and survival.
Lean-on Me is a visual metaphor for solidarity and mutual support, where even in the harshest environments, strength is found in togetherness. Young’s bold colours and imaginative composition celebrate the enduring spirit of Newfoundland’s fishing communities, where leaning on each other is essential to thriving amidst the challenges of nature.
