An attempt at an optical illusion, the stairs can lead either up or down. The perception of a flight of stairs leading down would mean the light causing the shadow is above and separate from you. If the stairs lead up, the shadow is also cast up meaning the light causing the shadow is with you. My intention with this painting was that if you have Jesus (the light) with you, then you are ascending up the staircase. If you choose to separate yourself from Jesus, you are descending.