In a new round of global conflict, fine art continues to share the lessons taught from past wars and conflict visually. Today’s 24/7 digital info wars has spurred global artists to leverage previous art icons. Photographer Andrey Kezzyn reenvisioned the famous work of Gustov Klimt as a statement about the Russian invasion of Ukraine. As reported by The Art Newspaper, the modern Klimt image evokes a tenderness yet concern for those impacted by the war. Kezzyn’s story is a recount of 2 lovers impacted by the invasion.
Klimt – The Kiss as interpreted by Alex G Cao with Klimt vs Rodin.
Picasso, Banksy, and photography icons including Alfred Eisenstaedt come to mind on where fine art takes it’s hints from conflict. Because of the artist’s involvement, the visual stroke of genius comes from how larger events impact the artist into an inspiration.
Alex Cao’s early interpretation of Guernica contrasted two masters impacting art at the time of the work: Picasso vs Matisse.
Picasso’s inspiration for Guernica is one of the modern marvels for humanity’s reflection and for those interested in the arts. The horror he documented from the Spanish civil war on canvas created a moment forever memorialized. Stand before the painting, Picasso visually and abstractly connects his role as an artist in reflecting on the state of the human condition. The work has been reinterpreted by many found and inspired by history.
Almost 100 years have passed and countless conflicts have struck the fine artist with reasons to search for deeper meaning. Each hope to connect with a collector influential enough to bring about change.
Banksy and Street Artists are most recognized today for linking conflict with fine art. Banksy’s judgment visually to mock authority, whether government or business, propelled him into first pop-culture and then fine art history. The street art movement of approximately the past 10 years has raised awareness to various issues like Defunding the Police, Black-Lives Matter, Syrian Refugees, and even the opportunity for a better day, like “Hope” by Sheppard Fairy.
NFTs are equally at play today – or at least back in 2021. A quick glance at Beeple’s 5000 Everydays can individually be expanded into a glimpse of how the larger world impacts the feelings and reactions of the artist. As such, when in your own collection, the work will inspire or at least cause you to think about a period in time.
