Painting

February 20, 2024

Stunning Patterned Paintings Actually Have Hidden Faces Within Them

At first glance, it would be easy to mistake Lee Wagstaff’s work for abstract, geometric paintings. But upon closer inspection—or in this case, farther inspection—it becomes clear that each of his oil paintings features a portrait of a human face staring back at the viewer. Remarkably, the portrait remains hidden until the viewer either squints or takes a step back. This optical illusion is simple but wildly effective.

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February 7, 2024

Artist Repurposes Persian Carpets as a Canvas for Evocative Portraits of Women

French artist Mateo Humano uses a unique canvas for his haunting portraits of women. Inspired by the traditions of ancient cultures and influenced by his background as a street artist, Humano places his evocative portraits on Persian carpets. In doing so, he allows the traditional patterns to become part of the features of the women. The effect is incredible.

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January 31, 2024

Glorious Explosions of Color Capture the Beautiful Symphony of Nature in Oil Paintings

In the late 19th century, Impressionism blossomed under the talents of Claude Monet and Pierre Auguste-Renoir. Since then, it has inspired many variations and successors, including the Open-Impressionist style. Led by artist Erin Hanson, this modern adaptation relies on impasto paint strokes without layering. She demonstrates the beauty of this style by rendering a variety of kaleidoscopic landscapes.

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January 15, 2024

Hyperrealistic Paintings of Ferocious and Fuzzy Animals Rendered on Pure Silk Fabric

In China and Japan, silk painting has an age-old history. This exquisite craft requires the artist's careful precision to render works on the smooth textile, and, when mastered, results in soft and luminescent pieces. Artist Dr. Olga Belova carries on this tradition by creating hyperrealistic portraits of animals on pure silk fabric. From tigers and leopards to wolves, these wildlife portraits appear to glow against the sinuous backdrop.

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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.