Despite only being 366 days, 2016 was a year full of extreme highs and severe lows. 2017 may or may not be more forgiving than 2016, but like many others, I feel like the only thing that will prevail is our innate desire to create positivity and art in the world. In this new year, on a monthly basis, I will be highlighting certain artists, movements, people, and programs that I feel deserve to be noted.
This month, a certain visual artist has caught my eye. He is an Argentina-based 2D artist whose style combines urban streetwear and mythology from various Asian traditions, most notably Japan's.
His name is Mau Lencinas and he goes by 199hates.
I think his style is so fascinating from the clothes his characters wear to the bold colors used to highlight his subjects. I would love to see a graphic novel or animated film illustrated by him.
Even his illustrations with more muted colors are presented in such a way that strikes the perfect balance between realism and surrealism.
His characters are usually portrayed as heroes nonchalantly positioned after defeating a variety of different monsters and creatures.
One thing that stood out to me about his illustrations was the frequency in which name brand clothing and their parodied counterparts made appearances.
I don't believe this was for the sake of including these companies, per se, but because of Lencinas' awareness of the brands and styles that are so prevalent in urban areas worldwide.
Energetic dance performance under the spotlight.
Taylor Swift in a purple coat, captivating the crowd on stage.
Taylor Swift shines on stage in a sparkling outfit and boots.
Taylor Swift and Phoebe Bridgers sharing a joyful duet on stage.
