Alan Macdonald's portraits contrast 17 century oil painting with modern brands, making for an interesting societal juxtaposition.
These paintings leaves you with the haunting feeling that something isn't quite right about modern living.
In the same way many artists today question modern lifestyles and our connection with the natural world, or rather lack of connectedness with nature, Macdonald's portraits encourage viewers to search for a hidden truth, a hidden layer of meaning within the faces and lines of the people and landscapes he paints.
His figures look spiritually searching, grey eyed and dreaming, and bare resemblance to the master of portraits, like Rembrandt or Frans Hals paintings. Each portrait and landscape is accompanied by words, even dictionary definitions, as if language can sense of the mystery surrounding the scenes.
Macdonald's paintings are beautifully crafted and offer fun scenarios with a sharp commentary on human consumption, human history and the human condition, leaving viewers with a dark and unsettling nerve.
Have we lost ourselves in Walker's crisp?
Juxtaposing Modern Culture With 17th Century Art
Alan Macdonald's Paintings
Trend Themes
1. Contrasting Art - The trend of juxtaposing different art styles creates a unique and thought-provoking societal commentary.
2. Questioning Modern Lifestyles - Many artists today explore the disconnection between modern living and nature, opening up disruptive innovation opportunities in sustainable living solutions.
3. Layered Meanings - Incorporating hidden meanings and layers of symbolism in artwork allows for deeper exploration and engagement with the audience.
Industry Implications
1. Art Galleries - Art galleries can showcase contrasting art styles to attract a diverse audience and spark conversations about societal issues.
2. Sustainable Living - The trend of questioning modern lifestyles presents opportunities for industries related to sustainable living, such as renewable energy, eco-friendly products, and green technology.
3. Art Education - Art education can incorporate the concept of layered meanings in artwork to foster critical thinking and creative exploration among students.