Art

July 14, 2023

Artist Recreates 18th-Century Romantic “Lover’s Eyes” Tradition by Painting Eyes on Vintage Plates

In the late 1700s, a romantic trend swept through wealthy families in England, Europe, and even America. Called “lover's eyes,” or “eye miniatures,” these small paintings were commissioned to depict the eye or eyes of spouses, loved ones, and children. While during the Georgian period (1700s to early 1800s) they were worn as accessories like bracelets and pendants, contemporary artist Susannah Carson is reimagining this art form.

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July 9, 2023

Learn About J.C. Leyendecker, the Illustrator Who Defined Men’s Style in the Early 20th Century

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, illustrators were celebrities. They were household names. It might sound strange today, but consider an illustrator's role in society; this was before photographs were routinely used in magazines and newspapers, so illustrators were the ones who helped define the visual culture at that time. Of the illustrators with immense cultural influence, J.C. Leyendecker was at the top.

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July 4, 2023

Abandoned Materials Are Upcycled Into Charming Bug Sculptures

Abandoned materials find new life in Mark Oliver‘s charming sculptures. The UK-based artist upcycles everything from scrap metal to playing cards, carefully assembling different parts together until he creates amazing figurines that resemble fantastical insects. This ongoing series, titled Litter Bugs, features collage sculptures of various shapes and sizes. Oliver credits his father's collection of electrical and engineering components for inspiring his interest in layering different elements together.

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July 2, 2023

Intricate Ceramic Sculptures Mimic the Vibrant Beauty of Aquatic Life

UK-based artist Lisa Stevens pushes the boundaries of ceramics with her aquatic-inspired creations. Embedded with intricate details, these pieces mimic the colors and forms found by the sea. Featuring bright flowers and textured ridges, any of these sculptures look like they could've washed up on shore. Stevens has been capturing natural oceanic motifs for years. While her art has become increasingly elaborate, her process remains the same.

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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.