<b>DEAD SOLDIERS--THE GOD AND ALSO THE BEER</b> / Daniel Kelly2011$2,500</em>

Details

In Daniel Kelly's mixed media print, the viewer is drawn into a captivating exploration of cultural symbols and societal contrasts. A close-up depiction of two Ebisu beer cans, magnified many times their original size, takes center stage against a backdrop of vibrant traditional Japanese textile patterns. Rendered in bright reds, oranges, greens, blues, and pinks, the textile features intricate motifs of flowers and fans, evoking a sense of timeless beauty and craftsmanship. Kelly's work is a striking celebration of both the commercial and cultural artifacts of Japan, merging elements of "pop" art with traditional aesthetics. The juxtaposition of the beer cans against the backdrop of regal hand-made textiles creates a compelling visual contrast, highlighting the intersection of high and low culture. Notably, Ebisu beer is named after one of the seven lucky gods of Japan, adding another layer of cultural significance to the composition. Through this juxtaposition, Kelly delves into the complexities of cultural identity and commercialization, exploring the interplay between tradition and modernity in contemporary Japan. As a foreigner living and working in Japan, Kelly's exploration of these themes is both thought-provoking and visually arresting, inviting viewers to ponder the layers of irony and paradox inherent in contemporary Japanese culture.

Connoisseur's Note

This multimedia piece is derived from three-dimensional collage artworks, incorporating a diverse array of materials meticulously adhered to a wooden panel using neutral pH polyvinyl paste, stainless steel screws, and staples. From these original creations, Kelly reimagines the composition as a print. For this particular piece, Nepalese paper and Japanese fabric were utilized, employing the Chine-collé technique to affix them onto irregularly shaped synthetic material for its lightweight and durability. The resulting print preserves the essence of the original's three-dimensional quality while imbuing it with a distinct character of its own as a finalized printed artwork.