The sculpture “Equilibrium” by Alexander Lidagovsky in Kyiv, Ukraine. When the weather is windy, the sculpture of the gymnast balances as alive. The sculpture symbolizes harmony and balance in the human environment.
Alexander Lidagovsky was born in 1961 in the city Huliaipole of Zaporizhzhia region, Ukraine. 1982-1987 – studied at the Kharkiv State Academy of Design and Arts. Currently lives and works in Kyiv, Ukraine.
What do you think about “Equilibrium” by Alexander Lidagovsky?
Diving Into the World of Odeith’s Anamorphic Graffiti
Portuguese street artist Odeith, also known as Sérgio Odeith, has gained international recognition for his jaw-dropping 3D graffiti pieces that defy the limits of perception. In this blog post, we’ll explore 19 of his most astonishing works and delve into the world of this master of illusion.
Odeith’s Background and Style
Odeith began his graffiti career in the 1980s, honing his skills on the streets of Lisbon. Over the years, he has refined his technique and developed his signature style, characterized by bold colors, intricate details, and mind-bending optical illusions (read more about him later in this post).
Odeith’s 3D graffiti art is a perfect blend of skill, perspective, and creativity. By employing anamorphic techniques and masterful shading, he transforms ordinary walls and objects into realistic three-dimensional scenes that appear to leap off the surface.
Odeith is known for tackling a wide range of subject matter in his work, from animals and insects to urban landscapes and fantastical creatures. His pieces often feature a sense of movement and depth, drawing viewers into his vivid, illusionary world.
Among Odeith’s most remarkable pieces are his larger-than-life murals of animals, including a majestic lion, a menacing crocodile, and an otherworldly praying mantis. These works not only showcase his technical prowess but also highlight his ability to breathe life into his subjects.
Odeith’s Impact on the Street Art Scene
Odeith’s innovative 3D graffiti art has earned him a reputation as one of the most talented and influential artists in the street art world. His work has inspired countless other artists and raised the bar for what is possible with spray paint and a blank canvas.
Odeith’s Background and Style: A Deeper Dive
Born in Damaia, Portugal, in 1976, Sérgio ‘Odeith’ first picked up a spray can in the mid-1980s, painting signatures and doodles on his neighborhood walls. It wasn’t until the mid-1990s that he encountered graffiti artists in Carcavelos, where the movement was gaining momentum. This sparked a passion for graffiti that led him to paint illegally on street walls and railway lines in and around Lisbon.
Odeith’s impressive evolution as an artist is due in part to his dedication to painting large-scale murals in various neighborhoods throughout Damaia, Carcavelos, and Amadora. Although he dropped out of school at the age of 15 and never received any formal art training, Odeith’s talent for drawing and his relentless self-taught approach to his craft led him to become the renowned artist he is today.
In 2003, Odeith adopted his current moniker, and by 2005, his innovative use of the anamorphosis technique began garnering international recognition. This “Somber 3D” style, as he later called it, involves painting on 90-degree corners or flat walls to create authentic, large-scale compositions of insects or objects that give a striking 3D optical illusion effect. Many of these works, painted in abandoned spaces, quickly went viral due to their realism and technique.
Odeith briefly lived in London after closing his tattoo shop in 2008, but he has since returned to Lisbon, where he now focuses exclusively on studio work and walls. Despite his lack of formal training, Odeith has become a pioneering force in the world of street art, with his dark anamorphic style and passion for the craft setting him apart from other artists.
Discovering More of Odeith’s Work
To explore more of Odeith’s incredible 3D graffiti pieces, check out his website and follow him on Instagram. Keep an eye out for his work in your city or during your travels, as you never know where his next masterpiece might appear.
The Lasting Impact of Odeith’s Innovative Street Art
Odeith’s jaw-dropping 3D graffiti art is a testament to the power of creativity, skill, and imagination. These 18 captivating pieces offer just a glimpse into the mind of this master of illusion, whose work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of street art.
What do you think about the 3D Graffiti by Odeith?
Banksy, the enigmatic street artist whose identity remains a mystery, has become a global symbol of rebellion and a voice for the voiceless.
His provocative artworks transcend mere aesthetic appeal; they are powerful political statements that challenge authority, question societal norms, and ignite conversations worldwide.
In this exploration of Banksy’s most impactful pieces, we delve into how his art serves as a catalyst for change, shedding light on pressing issues like war, capitalism, and social justice.
One of Banksy’s most iconic images, “Balloon Girl”, features a young girl reaching out toward a heart-shaped balloon drifting away. This poignant piece symbolizes lost innocence and the elusive nature of happiness and love. It subtly comments on the loss experienced by children in conflict zones and the fleeting moments of joy in a turbulent world.
Why it Matters: The simplicity of the image makes its message universally relatable, touching hearts and prompting reflections on what we value and how easily it can slip away.
“Love is in the Air”: Flowers Over Violence
In “Love is in the Air”, Banksy portrays a masked protester poised to throw not a Molotov cocktail, but a bouquet of flowers. This powerful juxtaposition transforms an act of aggression into one of peace and hope.
Why it Matters: The artwork encourages non-violent protest and suggests that love and compassion are the most effective tools for societal change.
The West Bank Wall: Art Amidst Conflict
Banksy’s series of paintings on the West Bank Wall are some of his most politically charged works. By incorporating images of children playing, windows opening to idyllic landscapes, and other symbols of freedom and normalcy, he starkly contrasts the harsh reality of life in a conflict zone.
Why it Matters: These pieces bring international attention to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, humanizing those affected and criticizing the barriers—both physical and ideological—that divide us.
In “Devolved Parliament”, Banksy replaces British MPs with chimpanzees in the House of Commons. This satirical artwork critiques the state of political discourse, suggesting that those in power are behaving irrationally or regressing.
Why it Matters: The piece resonates especially during times of political turmoil, prompting viewers to question the efficacy and integrity of their leaders.
Banksy’s choice to remain anonymous keeps the focus squarely on his art and its messages. Without a known persona to scrutinize, the public engages directly with the issues he highlights. His anonymity becomes a powerful tool, emphasizing that the causes he champions are bigger than any one individual.
Art as a Tool for Social Change
Banksy’s work demonstrates the profound impact that art can have on society. By placing his pieces in public spaces, he bypasses traditional gatekeepers of the art world, making his messages accessible to all.
Key Takeaways:
Challenging Authority: Banksy’s art often questions those in power, urging transparency and accountability.
Social Justice: He shines a light on inequality, urging viewers to recognize and address systemic issues.
War and Peace: His works frequently comment on the futility of war and the universal desire for peace.
Justseeds artist Saiyare Refaei interviews author Thaer Husien about his debut novel "Beside the Sickle Moon," on grassroots community organizing, writing, and resistance.
This jaw-dropping sculpture named ‘Horizon’ in New Zealand looks like something out of a Photoshop illusion, but it’s entirely real! Created by Neil Dawson, the massive metal artwork defies gravity and challenges our sense of perspective, appearing to float effortlessly in the sky. Located in Gibbs Farm, it has become a must-see attraction for art lovers and travelers alike
What do you think about this sculpture by Neil Dawson?
1. The Statue of King Arthur, located in Tintagel, England, is a striking bronze sculpture by artist Rubin Eynon.
Erected in 2016, this statue stands on the cliffs of Tintagel Castle, a site steeped in Arthurian legend. The sculpture, named “Gallos” (meaning “power” in Cornish), depicts a cloaked and crowned King Arthur holding his sword, with his body appearing to merge with the landscape.
This artwork symbolizes the enduring power and mystery of the Arthurian legends that are deeply rooted in the area.
2. Albert György’s sculpture, Melancholy, captures the emptiness left by grief.
As John Maddox eloquently states, “We may look as if we carry on with our lives as before… but this emptiness is how we all feel… all the time.”
3. Christ of the Abyss is an extraordinary bronze statue created by Guido Galletti in 1954.
This unique piece rests on the seabed of the Mediterranean Sea, nestled between Camogli and Portofino on the Italian Riviera. Submerged beneath the azure waters, it continues to captivate divers and visitors with its serene and mystical presence.
4. This colossal sculpture was created nearly 450 years ago by Flemish sculptor Giambologna as a symbol of Italy’s Apennine mountains. Standing at nearly 14 meters (45 ft) tall, it was commissioned by Francesco de Medici, the Grand Duke of Tuscany, in 1579.
Positioned above a pond, the statue features a chamber in its head where Francesco would sit and fish at night. When a fire was lit inside, the Colossus’s eyes glowed red, and smoke billowed from its nostrils, creating a striking visual effect.
5. The Christ the Redeemer statue, standing atop Corcovado Mountain in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks.
This 30-meter (98 ft) tall statue, with arms stretching 28 meters (92 ft) wide, overlooks the city, symbolizing peace and welcoming all with open arms. Completed in 1931 and designed by French sculptor Paul Landowski and Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa, it has become a symbol of Christianity around the globe and an enduring image of Brazil.
6. Not the most amazing statue, but definitely an amazing story. In Istanbul, Turkey, they made a statue to honor the famous stray cat (Tombili) that used to sit in this position and watch the passers by.
One month after its installation the sculpture went missing. A comment from Turkey MP Tuncay Özkan: “They stole the Tombili statue. They are enemies of everything beautiful. All they know is hate, tears and war”. The statue was safely returned a short time later. More photos here.
7. This eagle sculpture is the world’s largest bird statue, created by Indian artist Rajiv Anchal.
Located at Jatayu Earth’s Center in Kerala, India, the sculpture took a decade to complete. Spanning 200 feet in length, 150 feet in width, and 70 feet in height, this colossal work of art depicts the mythical eagle Jatayu from the Indian epic, Ramayana.
8. This stunning marble sculpture, Ajax and Cassandra, was crafted in 2022 by renowned Italian contemporary artist Jago.
The piece beautifully captures the dramatic moment between the Greek hero Ajax and the Trojan priestess Cassandra.
9. Sendai Daikannon in Japan, the eighth-tallest statue in the world at 100 meters (330 ft):
10. The great challenge by Nicolas Lavarenne. Antibes, French Riviera.
11. This is how the Statue of Unity in India looks like. It’s the tallest statue in the world: standing at 182 meters (597 ft) tall, it’s nearly three times the height of the Statue of Liberty.
Portrays the profound emptiness experienced by migrants as they depart from their homeland—leaving their loved ones and their community behind—in pursuit of a better life:
14. Leshan Giant Buddha in China (800 AD) At 71 meters (233 ft) tall, this is the tallest pre-modern statue on Earth:
15. Everyone knows Michelangelo’s statue of David, but those lucky enough to have visited one of Rome’s greatest museums (Galleria Borghese) are aware that Bernini also sculpted an incredible portrayal of the biblical hero.
16. The Kiss of Death is a marble sculpture made in 1930 and found in Poblenou Cemetery, Barcelona:
17. The Weight of Thought, bronze sculptures by Thomas Lerooy:
18. Victor Noir’s grave in Père-Lachaise cemetery, created by Patrick Magaud in 1984, has gained fame not for Noir’s journalistic work but for the legend surrounding his death and burial site.
Noir was a journalist shot dead, and his grave features a full-sized bronze statue of him lying down, as if recently shot. Over time, the statue became a fertility symbol.
Legend has it that kissing the statue on the lips, leaving a flower in Victor’s hat, and rubbing the genital area enhances fertility, improves one’s sex life, or helps find a husband within a year. This has led to the lips and trousers’ bulge on the statue becoming noticeably shiny from repeated contact.
In 2004, a fence was erected around the grave to prevent this practice, but public protest led to its removal. Victor Noir’s grave remains one of the most visited and talked-about monuments in Père-Lachaise.
19. The amazing handkerchief detail in this marble statue made by French sculptor Louis Philippe Mouchy in 1781:
20. The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa is a sculpture by Gian Lorenzo Bernini depicting Saint Teresa of Ávila in a state of religious ecstasy, while an angel holding a spear stands over her:
21. Luo Li Rong is a contemporary artist renowned for crafting hyper-realistic clay and bronze sculptures:
22. The Dignity statue, South Dakota:
24. Freedom Sculpture, Philadelphia
“I wanted to create a sculpture almost anyone, regardless of their background, could look at and instantly recognize that it is about the idea of struggling to break free. This sculpture is about the struggle for achievement of freedom through the creative process” — Zenos Frudakis:
25. The vision of Constantine by Bernini is arguably one of the most underrated sculpture in art history.
Gian Lorenzo revolutionized the art form by infusing unprecedented movement into stone.
26. The Mud Maid by Sue Hill, located in the Lost Garden of Heligan, Cornwall, UK.
27. Departure, a stunning bronze sculpture by artist George Lundeen, highlighted by the frost:
28. The Resting Boxer, crafted more than 2,000 years ago, is one of the most realistic sculptures ever made and one of the finest examples of bronze sculptures to have survived from the ancient world.
It was excavated in Rome in 1885. Its incredible features, such as its pose, gaze, broken nose, cauliflower ears, scarred face, and bruised eyes, have been enchanting the world ever since:
30. The mesmerizing details of The West Wind, a surreal marble sculpture by American artist Thomas Ridgeway Gould.
Gould’s masterpiece likely drew inspiration from Percy Shelley’s “Ode to the West Wind,” in which the west wind serves as an allegory for the cyclical nature of change and revolution:
"Avec le temps, va, tout s'en va" chantait Léo Ferré s'il m'en souvient au siècle dernier. De mes souvenirs graphiques aussi il ne reste que peu de traces. Les quelques lignes de Somey pour tracer son "S" allée du Kaaï il y a longtemps en font assurément partie.
Ses lignes je les retrouve dans un précieux petit livre de sketches publié par les éditions ShowDesk. Un livre passé inaperçu chez nous ; un livre tout simple, sans colibri, sans coucher de soleil, juste du noir et du blanc. Et des lignes, des lignes encore et encore, pour former des lettres.
Et quand naïvement je m'étonne de ne pas retrouver Somey dans le parcours street-art de la ville de Bruxelles ou dans nos "street art jam" locale, je me dis que c'est normal puisqu'il fait du graff. Mais j'exagère...
Somey
Editions ShowDesk (Napoli)
Mai 2024 - 48 pages
Infos ShowDesk.org@nocolorsketch
Disponible au MontanaShop Brussels
In May of this year I drove out from Portland to the small town of Condon, OR, to paint a mural. The subject was steelhead, a large and beautiful species...
Rainbow Family Village (彩虹眷村) – In Taichung, Taiwan
In Taiwan, a 96-year-old artist transformed his village with colorful street art, attracting so many tourists that the mayor decided to preserve it. His vibrant paintings turned the village into a beloved local attraction.
Steven R. Barringer about Rainbow Family Village: “A beautiful and colorful small village in Taichung, Taiwan where almost everything in site is painted joyful colors. A sense of wonder and peacefulness is felt as you wander the tiny streets of this modest section of the big city. Bright lively colors call out to your inner child as you find what appears to be an endless seam of creative whimsical imagery. A must-see for any one in Taichung.”
