Kveta Pacovska

It's funny how some great artists slip through the cracks in the art world. Perhaps because she works mainly in children's book illustration, or because her books are more prevalent in European shops and libraries, Kveta Pacovska is not a household name in the U.S... but she should be! 

The Czech born artist/illustrator has won the Hans Christian Anderson prize, the most prestigious in the world of children's books, and it's no wonder. Her illustrations are bright and lively, colorful and just abstract enough to lend themselves to great imagination. Here are some samples:

USA Map project

The gradation of each state was less apparent in oils than in colored pencil, which I used in a study. Nevertheless, the varied angles of contrast create a 3D feel and sense of separation and alienation between each. I could have done without the pink outline, I suppose.  Another point of satisfaction for me is the stylization of the shape- the country is squat, smashed and every state is shortened or elongated as a result. I think it looks much nicer this way. 

Triumphant return

After an almost 4-week hiatus from painting, I return. And, despite a plethora of images and ideas from my trip, I am back to painting maps. This time, a rendering of the U.S.

In preparation, I've been perusing the web for inspiration. There are the obvious masterpieces- Jasper John's and Jules de Balincourt's maps.

These are just some great finds- not wholly related to my mission, but whatever:

Population proportional to country area map

When the states play musical chairs

How much would you pay?

To see Damien Hirst's diamond-studded skull entitled, 'For the love of God'? Valued at around 100 million dollars?

Ten euros!- perhaps Hirst is trying to make some money off of the Memento Mori after buying it back for his gallery when it did not sell at its release in 2007.

If you're not near Florence, or you don't have 10 euros in your pocket, here's a picture:

I heart Venice Guggenheim

Venice is beautiful. Despite my being hopelessly lost for most of my stay, I enjoyed the old buildings, the canals and the general uniqueness of the place. The highlight of my short visit was definitely the Peggy Guggenheim collection. In particular, this:

Picasso's "At the Beach". The 3D shapes make up forms that are so 'other' yet carry very human features, and are engaged in a human act. 

This one wasn't at the Guggenheim, but I really love it as well: 

Another "Figures at the beach", yet this one seems so explicit! Like watching creatures mate on the nature channel... 

Sorry for the lack of updates...I will be exploring Verona and Florence in the next week, and hopefully return with a plethora of artists and ideas. Ciao!