When considering artist research, the creators I wanted to consider were those who had created a strong distinct visual style. This style has the ability to create a world and an atmosphere which is distinct to that creator and within this world the audience is drawn in and can understand the story that the creator is telling. The more unique and stylised a piece is with cohesive visuals the more interesting it is for the audience and thus the more effective the piece is at communicating.
Therefore I am going to carry this current fascination with atmosphere into my artist research in order to aid in my own development of my visual language. By understanding how an artist has successfully created their visuals I can use this in order to influence my own understanding and drive to create my piece and develop my own style. Rather than just providing a piece of work I want to also provide a deeper and more gripping atmosphere in order to illuminate the narrative of the piece. By creating my universe where my characters are situated, my audience will be able to begin developing a deeper understanding of my work as a connected whole rather than separate pieces.
My own work is also very much focused around humans, our interactions, emotions and experiences. Therefore developing a more cathartic style in order to compliment the deeper narratives is one of my key aims of this project.
Lobster Studio – Skin – This is a short film directed by Fausto Montanari and animated by Andrea Stragapede, it is narrated by someone discussing discovering the reality of your skin and being comfortable in your being through the experiences of life. The animation also visually represents the story that is being told, the visual language highlights and develops points. The style is simple yet extremely visually interesting, with a cohesive, consistent and simple colour palette which works well in creating the aforementioned atmosphere. The style adds a more playful element to an otherwise deeper narrative that considers body image and acceptance of self.
MUR-O is a short film created by Lili Des Bellons and Ezequiel Torres where they asked the audience or anyone interested to draw out the end of the piece. I adore the ethereal otherworldly atmosphere created by the bright jewel-esque colours, gradients and glow. I’m going to take inspiration from how they incorporate the audience in the telling of their story and work something like this into my own project. Since allowing the audience to become part of the project is something that appeals to me since I do not want to sit on a pedestal above my audience, I wish to be on the same level since I am discussing narratives close to many of their personal experiences.
Nahuel Bardi also creates these gorgeous ethereal landscapes with glowing elements and bright colours. The word ‘ethereal’ is one I was to focus on, I want to inspire my audience and create a sense of awe in them. With topics to do with humans it is easy to become too deep and dark visually which brings a sad topic even further down, and as a result some of the audience may not feel comfortable. I want to approach my topic with care, tenderness and love, I want to evoke emotions in my audience which bring us together in love, discussion and understanding. This would not be as easy if I am providing shocking and blatant imagery.
Pollynor – Her style portrays a more realistic depiction of the female body in a cartoon style and the stories she tells are similar to what I am interested in discussing in my project. the way she portrays women is far from the perfect media standards and this has created a love for her work since it is a new approach to the portrayal of women in mainstream media.
Laura Jayne Hodkin – portrays a strong idea of comfort in yourself. The characters conversations and actions are extremely relatable. Such as in Nailbiter and Haley and Joanna
Chelou – Halfway to Nowhere music video. Pollynor’s illustrations are animated into a piece about a personal journey. This piece is my main influence at the moment, the representation of different emotions such as the feeling of healing and content (above) is communicated so well visually. Emotions are deeper and so it takes thought in order to portray them in the best way possible and I believe this music video did so very effectively. The piece is warm and connects to the heart of the audience creating emotions of happiness and hope for an overall feel good atmosphere through the journey of the main character. This is something I am aiming to achieve within my own piece.