Art

August 18, 2025

Stunning Pencil Drawings Blur the Line Between Realism and Surrealism [Interview]

Japanese artist Kei Meguro loves a challenge. Her detailed works toe the line between photorealism and surrealism, mixing portraits that easily look like black and white photographs, with dreamlike elements that are just as elaborate. Most impressively, she creates her pieces exclusively with pencil. But rather than seeing this tool as a restriction, Meguro revels in the endless possibilities this medium offers. Born in Japan, Meguro splits her time between Tokyo and Brooklyn.

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August 14, 2025

Oil Paintings Capture Bright Colors and Ornate Patterns of Traditional Mexican Garments

At the center of Yael Medrez Pier’s paintings is a deep admiration for the creativity and resourcefulness of Indigenous women around Mexico. The Mexico City-born and based artist relies on eye-catching compositions that spotlight the traditional garments worn by members of different groups. Medrez Pier’s colorful and ornate compositions may be alluring on their own, but they are ultimately a visual path to tell the life stories of her subjects.

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August 13, 2025

Superflat Meets Ecology in AYA TAKANO’s Newest Solo Exhibition

Many sources of inspiration weave through AYA TAKANO’s practice. Even the most casual viewer can recognize the artist’s superflat aesthetic, manifesting as manga-like illustrations that prize two-dimensionality, playful graphics, and vibrant color palettes. That style is to be expected—after all, TAKANO studied under and still works with Takashi Murakami, who popularized the movement with his own art. What may be less expected, but no less influential, is TAKANO’s fascination with ecology.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.