For those of you not familiar with original fairy tale stories, the Oranges and Lemons street art series is a modern crash course on them. It basically demonstrates harsher life lessons that involve death, decapitation, animal abuse and even possible incest. Inspired by the British fairy tale of the same name, it really is a shocking series of art.
Put together by Australian artist Michael Bennett, the Oranges and Lemons series is definitely gaining notoriety thanks to its unabashed subject matter as well as the skill exhibited behind each piece. Similar to the nursery rhymes it's influenced by, it looks all roses and tulips at first until you inspect it closer.
The Oranges and Lemons street art series is on display now at Oh Really Gallery.
Soothingly Sinister Street Art
The Oranges and Lemons Series is Inspired by Nursery Rhymes
Trend Themes
1. Dark Nursery Rhyme Street Art - The Oranges and Lemons series is part of a trend in street art to reinterpret traditional children's stories with darker themes.
2. Unapologetically Shocking Art - Artists are pushing boundaries and creating pieces that make viewers uncomfortable, raising questions about the role of art in provoking societal change.
3. Art as Social Commentary - Artists are using their platforms to comment on social issues in a bold and thought-provoking way, challenging viewers to engage in conversations about difficult topics.
Industry Implications
1. Art - There is an opportunity for artists to explore unconventional subject matter in their work and push the boundaries of what is considered 'acceptable' in the art world.
2. Urban Development and Street Art - The Oranges and Lemons series can inspire property developers and city planners to commission street art that reflects the history, culture, and values of the community and promotes engagement with the arts.
3. Education and Curriculum Development - Educators can use the dark themes in the Oranges and Lemons series as a teaching tool to introduce students to different perspectives and challenge conventional thinking.