Robert Townsend Illustrates Irony and Nostalgia on Products
Josh Triantafilou — May 12, 2012 — Pop Culture
References: rtownsendwatercolors & lostateminor
Los Angeles-based artist Robert Townsend has a sense of color, depth, composition and humor. One need only look at
his work to understand this.
The pop surrealist recently put his brush to the canvas, creating a slew of realistically rendered paintings of everyday items
from yesteryear. In a streak of wry wit, one painting depicts children's alphabetical building blocks that read, "z is for xanax." In another painting, Townsend portrays a used car sales man in such a way that he resembles an old time talk show host.
This sort of ironic, almost satirical humor may not paint the past as a golden age, but it is not without nostalgia.
As with much pop art and pop surrealism, Townsend's work plays upon notes of familiarity, subtly changing their timbre and pitch so as to encourage the viewer to see things a little differently.
his work to understand this.
The pop surrealist recently put his brush to the canvas, creating a slew of realistically rendered paintings of everyday items
from yesteryear. In a streak of wry wit, one painting depicts children's alphabetical building blocks that read, "z is for xanax." In another painting, Townsend portrays a used car sales man in such a way that he resembles an old time talk show host.
This sort of ironic, almost satirical humor may not paint the past as a golden age, but it is not without nostalgia.
As with much pop art and pop surrealism, Townsend's work plays upon notes of familiarity, subtly changing their timbre and pitch so as to encourage the viewer to see things a little differently.
Trend Themes
1. Pop Surrealism Art - Opportunity for artists to create ironic and nostalgic artwork that challenges traditional perspectives.
2. Humorous Satire - Potential for businesses to incorporate irony and satire in their marketing campaigns to engage with their target audience.
3. Subtle Familiarity - Opportunity to use subtle changes in familiar elements to create unique products that capture consumer attention.
Industry Implications
1. Art - Art galleries and online platforms can showcase and sell pop surrealism artwork.
2. Advertising and Marketing - Marketing agencies can utilize humor and satire in their campaigns to create a memorable and engaging brand image.
3. Product Design - Designers can incorporate subtle changes in familiar designs to create innovative and captivating products.
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