Many artists have illustrated Mickey Mouse, but few have depicted the iconic cartoon character in as grotesque a manner as Spencer Mann. In Mann’s version, an explosion of tumor-like psychedelic imagery contort the Disney mascot’s head as it rests atop a floating and out-of-shape body. It’s safe to say most children can’t appreciate this badass incarnation of Mickey.
Spencer Mann also has re-imagined versions of popular cartoon characters like Pinocchio and Tony the Tiger. He takes a similar morbid approach in rendering the puppet and cereal-loving tiger, giving Pinocchio seemingly burnt green skin and Tony melting eyeballs. It’s an art style that’s very reminiscent of visuals seen in the ‘80s, where grossness was pushed to its limits for inspired imagery.
Mann currently bases all his art activity out of San Francisco.
Mutated Mascot Drawings
Spencer Mann Imagines Mickey Mouse & Others in Psychedelic Manner
Trend Themes
1. Gross-out Art - Mann's artwork embodies a trend of grotesque and psychedelic art, which could be utilized by disruptive companies bringing unconventional art to the mainstream.
2. Reimagining Comics - Mann's reimagined versions of classic comics from the '80s could inspire companies to explore the disruptive potential of bringing back classic cartoon characters in unconventional ways.
3. Psychedelic Pop Art - Mann's use of tumor-like imagery on iconic cartoon characters represents a trend towards psychedelic pop art, which could be used by disruptors to create unconventional merchandise and products.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Design - Mann's work shows disruptive potential for the creation of gross-out or psychedelic fine art that could be popular in galleries or alternative artistic spaces.
2. Pop Culture - With Mann's reimagining of classic cartoon characters, disruptors in the pop culture industry could tap into the trend of rebranding classic intellectual properties in unconventional ways.
3. Merchandise and Collectibles - The psychedelic pop art trend represented in Mann's work could inspire disruptive companies in the merchandise and collectibles industry to create unconventional and memorable products.