In Varoujan’s Harlequin Series, the artist portrays his interpretation of the relationship between Harlequin and Columbine and uses them as a metaphor to explore the concept of freedom in the context of romance, the dance steps of seduction between a man and a woman without promises nor compromises, and the path they take to preserve what in the end, they do not have - a choice to be alone without being lonely.
"The Harlequin should not to be confused with a clown” Varoujan stated. "Romantic, theatrical and entertaining, he wears playful hats intended to disarm the serious ones into confessions of their desires, and the abandonment of their convictions. The Harlequin represents the timelessness of a man’s desire. He’s every woman's fantasy, and with his charm, he successfully conquers a woman’s resistance, seducing her into his world of adventure. Adored by queens and kings, often he's the ruler behind the throne, the one with the power to influence the judgment of the judges."
The character of the Harlequin has appeared from time to time in Varoujan’s paintings. In 2004 Daniel Varoujan Hejinian began a group of paintings under the theme of the Harlequin. These paintings have emerged as the Harlequin Series, which reflect the uniqueness of the harlequin character as well as its complexity. As a whole, this group of paintings represent a colorful tapestry of images and concepts. A broken facade emphasizes layers of transparency as Harlequin’s broken promises and un-compromised dreams.
The curvilinear lines characteristic of Varoujan’s style, cross boundaries within the composition to create multiple layers adding to the story. In “Decision of the Bride” the blue rose in the center of the composition symbolizes her love and acceptance. In the background, houses with towers and golden domes welcome her to the city of his fairytale. In the foreground, the yellow guitar symbolizes the Harlequin's instrument of seduction.
