History of the Emergence of the Term ‘Lowbrow Art
famous lowbrow artists – considering the trends of contemporary art, it can be said that current art is more democratic and more varied. The global art scene is more open to everyone.
Unlike in the modern era, where standards felt more stringent, art had to adhere to a universal guideline. Due to the increased openness of galleries today towards previously marginalized works, such as graphic arts, illustrative arts, graffiti and murals, commonly known as street art, comics, and tattoo art.
However, this art movement is later defined as Lowbrow art. Meanwhile, Highbrow art encompasses works with deeper artistic depth and knowledge. However, at present, such classifications and judgments are highly subjective and biased.
The emergence of lowbrow arts and visually perceived ‘shallow’ art can also be affirmed by contemporary values, signifying a more subjectively valued art often revolving around themes of appropriation.
Clearly, this can be seen as a justification for the rise of art that focuses more on surface visuals. It is also attributed to the ascent of subcultures within the young urban population.
Certainly, with this broad art market, it can be seen as a positive development for the art market. The art market can reach a wider segment of society, thereby increasing the number of art enthusiasts who can appreciate artistic works.
In Indonesia itself, galleries catering to lowbrow artists are starting to emerge for exhibitions. The most vibrant at the moment is the Indonesia Museum of Toy. In this museum, many young artists showcase their works, presenting toy art in the form of collectible sculptures and graphic art, including graffiti and character arts.
Several world-renowned lowbrow artists include:
Mark Ryden is an artist born in Oregon, the United States. He is regarded as one of the prominent figures in the lowbrow art movement and is often referred to as the father of pop surrealism. His works explore unique and mysterious themes and atmospheres.”
Ryden’s works are inspired by the visual aesthetics of children’s toys, intriguing pop products, classic children’s books, skulls, and religious sculptures.
Ryden is renowned for his ability to create fantasy and surrealist works with a highly realistic, detailed, and refined approach. His visual style often employs multi-interpretable symbolic language, evoking a sense of nostalgia through the use of retro and vintage icons. In his artistic process, Mark Ryden frequently utilizes oil paint and digital art as media, crafting complex and futuristic visual effects.
In addition to creating paintings, Mark Ryden also ventures into toy art, collaborates with mass-produced products, and contributes artworks to music albums for renowned musicians such as Red Hot Chili Peppers and others.
Todd Schorr is a New York-based artist in the United States, categorized as a lowbrow artist, known for blending pop culture themes, surrealism, and comic aesthetics, particularly vintage comics. His works are intricate and detailed, transporting viewers to an alternate reality with a distinct fantasy quality.
Often, the themes he explores include satire, romanticized historical themes, and iconography. His works seamlessly blend symbols and characters we are familiar with, especially from comics, historical figures, and peculiar and unique fantasy creatures.
Todd Schorr is highly influenced by classic films, such as ‘King Kong’ and Disney classics.
Todd’s high skill and technique in painting execution often leave admirers in awe, particularly his storytelling prowess in images. His ability to adapt and serve as a bridge between fine art and popular culture is remarkable.
Joe Sorren is an artist born in Chicago, USA. Like other aforementioned lowbrow artists, Joe Sorren’s distinctive works are easily recognizable and carry a unique artistic signature.
He often portrays characters with large heads and small bodies in his paintings. Joe Sorren’s themes revolve around his daily activities and experiences, depicted in a symbolic language with unique and surrealistic imagery.
Above is a list of popular lowbrow artists with fantastic works. Surely, this list will continue in future articles covering more about lowbrow artists and galleries that provide spaces for their art. – Famous Lowbrow Artists