This Portrait Series Regally Depicts Real-Life Sideshow Freaks
David Ingram — September 28, 2015 — Unique
References: centuryguild.net & hifructose
These haunting victorian portraits skillfully depict actual historical sideshow freaks in a humanizing and regal manner.
Painted by Chicago-based artist Gail Potocki, historical sideshow attractions with real-world deformities like 'The Elephant Man,' 'Jo-Jo The Dog Face Boy' and 'The Bearded Lady' are portrayed in paintings mimicking the artistic style of 19th century masters. An endeavor six years in the making, the 'Freaks' art collection treats these subjects in a way that both respects and celebrates their flaws for a look at the individuals behind the abnormalities.
This famous cast of characters is skillfully captured by Potocki in portrait form and provides both a joyous yet somber look at these supposed sideshow freaks who at the end of the day are simply people.
Painted by Chicago-based artist Gail Potocki, historical sideshow attractions with real-world deformities like 'The Elephant Man,' 'Jo-Jo The Dog Face Boy' and 'The Bearded Lady' are portrayed in paintings mimicking the artistic style of 19th century masters. An endeavor six years in the making, the 'Freaks' art collection treats these subjects in a way that both respects and celebrates their flaws for a look at the individuals behind the abnormalities.
This famous cast of characters is skillfully captured by Potocki in portrait form and provides both a joyous yet somber look at these supposed sideshow freaks who at the end of the day are simply people.
Trend Themes
1. Historical Portraiture - Opportunity for artists, photographers, and galleries to create and sell portraits showcasing historical figures and popular culture icons in a new light.
2. Humanization of Abnormalities - Opportunity for media outlets and social influencer to promote the humanization of those with abnormalities through positive representation.
3. Nostalgic Revivals - Opportunity for event planners, marketers, and party supply companies to create experiences that revisit historical aesthetics, redefining nostalgia in a contemporary context.
Industry Implications
1. Art - Painters, photographers, and galleries can market historical portraits to collectors and create pieces that portray marginalized identities in a dignified light.
2. Media - Media outlets and social media influencers can promote body positivity and humanization of marginalized identities, challenging stigmatizing narratives and the status quo.
3. Events - Event planners, marketers, and party supply companies can tap into the historical aesthetics trend and create events and products that evoke nostalgia while remaining modern and relevant.
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