Polikarpov-Gill Mixed Media Drawing on Fine Art Paper by Derek Hess graffiti street artist modern original art.
2014 Signed Framed Original Mixed Media Painting Drawing Artwork Size 14x11.5
This piece includes a 1/2 Inch Black Metal Frame float mounted with 2 Inch matte, UV-Glass, foam core backing and ready to hang hardware.
"My first batch was done in 2010/2011 and showed during the World's Largest Crappie Festival in Water Valley Mississippi, that was awesome. All are were made using pen, ink, and acrylic. My father was a B-26 pilot and my dad helped instill the interest in the subject. Two of the pieces feature a rock bass morphed with a B-26. These are completely different from what I normally do, whatever 'normal' means. Anyway, these were just a lot of fun to do. Whereas some of the intense pieces that I do I feel I have to do, as to purge it from my system, which works half the time (I tend to carry that stuff with me). I wanted to do these for fun and are a great distraction." - Derek Hess
Animal Motifs in Street Pop Art & Graffiti Artwork
Animal imagery within street pop and graffiti artwork is a compelling conduit for many expressions, from activism to aesthetics. These forms, born from the vibrant heart of urban environments, have been leveraged by artists to shed light on critical issues and infuse the concrete landscape with life and color. Graffiti, with its roots stretching back to ancient civilizations, has evolved into a modern canvas that speaks to contemporary issues, including those affecting the animal kingdom. In the ever-expanding world of street art, the animal has become a symbol of activism and advocacy. Merging their passion for art with a mission for animal welfare, artists use graffiti and pop art as platforms to raise awareness about animal rights and conservation. Through the stark depiction of animals in distress or the celebration of their beauty, these artworks aim to provoke thought and stir the public's conscience. For instance, Banksy's "Sirens of the Lambs" delivers a powerful statement on the cruelty of the meat industry, while Andy Warhol's "Endangered Species" series spotlights the urgency of wildlife conservation.
Capturing Animal Essence in Urban Spaces
Not all animal-themed street art is steeped in somber tones; many pieces capture animals' whimsy and intrinsic beauty. Through the playful depiction of local fauna or monumental murals celebrating the majesty of wildlife, these pieces offer an oasis of natural wonder in the urban jungle. The animal form becomes a bridge connecting the viewer to the more humorous and delightful aspects of nature, as seen in the giant pigeon murals or the prominent depictions of household pets that bring charm and character to the streets. Animals are a rich source of inspiration in street pop art and graffiti artwork. They are not merely subjects but also messengers—carrying themes of environmental consciousness, reminding us of the planet's fragile beauty, and sometimes just providing a moment of fun and joy amidst the hustle of city life. These artworks demonstrate the enduring power of animals in art, whether as symbols of a cause or as embodiments of natural splendor. The versatility in the portrayal of animals within these artistic domains underscores a universal reverence for life in all its forms, making it a poignant and enduring theme in street art across the globe.
