Ever feel like gallery paintings are missing some of the pizazz of animated gifs? Probably not, since the two occupy very different spheres in the art world. Refined vs. hokey, timeless vs. of the moment, sombre vs. silly. It’s a good thing Ibon Mainar doesn’t work within the confines of our mental paradigms. In his hands, the works of Edward Hopper get a 21st-century update, complete with emojis, flashing lights, and TV sets. Mid-century scenes made modern with the addition of movement. Can anyone honestly claim to be unable to relate to the picture of the girl waiting by the window, anxiously bobbing her leg?
Words by L. Kimberly Leung
Check out Ibon Mainar‘s website for more.
