Most people wouldn’t want to cross paths with the children found in these Michael Mararian illustrations. Brandishing guns, drinking Absinthe and participating in self-mutilation, it’s safe to say that these toddlers are more than a little disturbed. Since Mararian also renders his subjects in a realistic manner, it’s scary to think that these kids are based on real life individuals.
However, that’s not how Michael Mararian sees it. The Brooklyn and Buffalo-based artist explains that he employs children as subjects often to, "explore the dark humor behind social and psychological issues." The juxtaposition between the innocence of youth and the heavy concepts depicted in his paintings are supposed to be twisted yet humorous. Though that is his intent, he also encourages viewers to interpret his creations on their own terms.
Gun-Toting Toddler Depictions
Michael Mararian Illustrates Badass Kids with Firearms
Trend Themes
1. Disturbing Art Depictions - This trend showcases the use of dark humor to explore social and psychological issues in art, providing opportunities for disruptive innovation in the art world.
2. Controversial Subject Matter - The use of children engaging in provocative and unconventional behaviors in art challenges societal norms, creating opportunities for disruptive innovation in cultural and entertainment industries.
3. Interpretation of Artistic Creations - The artist's encouragement of viewers to interpret his work on their own terms opens up possibilities for disruptive innovation in the art and design industries, such as interactive art installations or augmented reality experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Art Industry - This industry can explore new approaches to address social and psychological issues in art through provocative and controversial artistic depictions.
2. Cultural Industry - The cultural industry can embrace and promote controversial art forms that challenge traditional societal norms and provoke thought and discussion.
3. Design Industry - The design industry can leverage the concept of interpretation in creating immersive and interactive experiences that engage and intrigue viewers, blurring the lines between art and technology.