Artist Tom French Fluctuates Between Alluring and Foreboding
Andrew Robertson — April 23, 2012 — Art & Design
Akin to an optical illusion, these charcoal illustrations by Tom French play with the notion of what can be seen first. The drawings initially just look like portraits of skulls until one studies the composition more closely and realizes that within the morbid depictions are delicate images of women.
The strength of Tom French's skill as an artist is expressed in the way in which he is able to combine two diametrically opposed sensations and embody them both within a single painting. The skulls are entirely grotesque and macabre while the women are absolutely beautiful and serene. Rather than conflicting with each other, the two elements appear to exist as self-contained images, expressing their own aesthetic finesse which causes the image as a whole to fluctuate between alluring and foreboding.
The strength of Tom French's skill as an artist is expressed in the way in which he is able to combine two diametrically opposed sensations and embody them both within a single painting. The skulls are entirely grotesque and macabre while the women are absolutely beautiful and serene. Rather than conflicting with each other, the two elements appear to exist as self-contained images, expressing their own aesthetic finesse which causes the image as a whole to fluctuate between alluring and foreboding.
Trend Themes
1. Dual Composition Art - The trend of creating artworks with two distinct visual components, combining contrasting elements to create cohesive images that challenge viewers' perceptions.
2. Perception-bending Art - The trend of creating art that forces viewers to look beyond the surface level of an image and reevaluate their initial reactions and interpretations.
3. Feminine Imagery in Unconventional Ways - The trend of incorporating traditionally feminine imagery into unconventional or unexpected contexts for the purpose of creating visually striking and thought-provoking art.
Industry Implications
1. Art - Opportunities exist for artists to experiment with combining disparate artistic styles and elements to create new and innovative works that challenge traditional perceptions of what constitutes 'good' art.
2. Advertising and Marketing - Marketers may look to incorporate perception-bending imagery into their campaigns in order to capture consumers' attention and elicit a strong emotional response.
3. Fashion - Designers and stylists may draw inspiration from the trend of incorporating feminine imagery into unconventional contexts to create bold and innovative fashion pieces that challenge traditional gender norms.
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