I'm in the process of creating a series of octopus illustrations. This is a cut paper mixed media collage.
I am so in love with the octopus. They are AMAZING! I love all the suction cups.
This work incorporates some imagery from Hieronymous Bosch's Garden of Earthly Delights triptych, and that decision inspired my playful, surreal conversion of suckers to fanciful portholes. I also tossed in text from Alfred, Lord Tennyson's Kraken poem.
I was an art history major, and of all the art I've studied, Bosch's is among the most memorable. Every time I revisit The Garden of Earthly Delights triptych I get lost exploring the details. I ponder the meaning of each perverse delight. It's a little like enjoying Mainzer cats images, packed with chaotic action and detail.
As an artist, I marvel at the detail and the time it would have taken to create the masterpiece. Bosch's triptych measures 81" X 152". But each of those inches is packed with detailed imagery.
In addition to portholes, Sasquatch and Jaws make appearances in my new abstract octowork. But wait! There's more! Throw in a couple of meerkats, a few manhole covers, and an Irish Euro coin.
I used a porthole for the octopus eye.
Stipple and spatter add the necessary texture.
My goal in these octoworks is to explore abstraction. As a collage, I hope each invites the viewer to explore the delights that await.