Often, I think about how the main events of Riddle School would affect Phil growing up, as he was totally caught up in the middle of it... so were the other 3, but the fate of the world was forced into his hands, so I'm focusing on him. To put it simply, I wouldn't be suprised if Phil has some kind of trauma from this.
Despite it being a painting centered on Phil's potential feelings, he's not present in it, and I did this because I wanted it to literally be in Phil's POV.
This is intentionally supposed to not entirely align with how the real world works, and is supposed to be dream-like.
I often like to think that vibrant colors sometimes bring this "pop of life" into a piece of art, which is why this is an extremely desaturated and dull-toned painting.
Now onto the symbolism!!!
The destroyed buildings in the background represent the death of civilization, and a lack of safety, as people often stay inside their buildings and homes to avoid the harsh cold. The white roses represent the death of loved ones like Smiley (heh).
I want all of these elements to stare into the soul of the viewer (Phil technically). Like when you trip in public and everyone stares at you, staring at you like they believe that your fall wasn't caused by the outdated work in the pavement or cobblestone, or even someone's foot being in your way. Staring at you, or even laughing like it's all your fault when it isn't and your just a kid
An unrealistic, daunting, constant reminder of the world almost ending
It can probably be seen as a sort of "bad ending" that he'd be paranoid about. Because what's stopping something like this happening again, and he fails?
