British artist James Ostrer's latest series, titled 'Wotsit All About,' is comprised of human junk food art.
Junk food was little Ostrer's first addition, a troubling consequence of his parent's divorce. Fast food and candy quickly became a crutch and coping mechanism that Ostrer relied on in times of adversity. Besides revisiting his childhood habit, Ostrer creates a literal personification of age-old adage "you are what you eat." He has turned himself (and his willing friends) into human junk food sculptures with donut ears, candy roll tongues and neon-hued cream cheese.
Of the project, Ostrer says,"I've had dreams where these caricatures are telling me how I should live. To me they look like...this sounds a bit harsh, but if someone had poured acid over Tony the Tiger. It's like they're melting."
Humanized Junk Food Sculptures
James Ostrer's Junk Food Art Will Scare You Straight
Trend Themes
1. Humanized Food Art - Creating human sculptures using junk food highlights the relationship between identity and diet.
2. Food as Coping Mechanism - Exploring the use of junk food as a way to cope with emotional challenges brings attention to mental health and well-being.
3. Literal Interpretation of 'you Are What You Eat' - Representing the literal transformation of individuals into junk food sculptures raises awareness about the impact of diet on our physical appearance.
Industry Implications
1. Art - Opportunities for artists to use unconventional mediums and approaches to explore social issues and make impactful statements.
2. Food and Beverage - Potential for food companies to examine the psychological and emotional connections people have with their products and develop healthier alternatives.
3. Mental Health and Wellness - Room for innovation in developing coping mechanisms and strategies that promote healthier ways of dealing with emotional challenges.