“LIGHT HEADED” works on metal.

My initial artworks were a contemporary take on iconic figuration; removing and abstracting features of familiar cartoon characters. Made as a commentary on the current “cartoon” art market. I invested in these characters emotionally, and I was interested in their visual qualities. Approximately 40 canvases were created in the time span of 2 years. The techniques, materials and ideas compromising these works were rooted in my love of art history and my experiences as a collector.

For my solo show titled: “Lightheaded”, I wanted to further abstract my subjects. Unique shapes were extracted from my previous work, then cut out of metal to create the ground/base for the new body of work. I felt a need to completely remove all sense of familiarity; what once stood as the eyes of the characters were hollowed out.
Marking a connection and reference to the current cute-eye-art-culture that exists.

The shapes play a dual role where in one aspect can be seen for their nostalgic familiar child-like-innocence, and in another, a more serious perhaps slightly disturbing outline perspective. The outline of shapes was a way to maintain continuity in my work, taking one element from my initial body of work while completely wiping out all other information. An idea on how we view information today, how we filter massive amounts of information from one day to the next with perhaps only some form or line retained.

The techniques used to paint on the metal shapes are divided in two categorical techniques. (FAST) A random application of paint, allowing chance (aka Life) to take over, and the natural order of chaos to prevail. This method of creation also reflects on the loss of control / will, during the various “stay at home” orders a residual of the pandemic during 2021. The other process (SLOW): Is the meditative part of my painting, an intentional and cognitive application of paint, with clear order and control. A way to satisfy myself with visual success and exert complete “will”. A feature often present in my work that fills me with joy. This technique was a way for me to change the perception of time passing, standing still, or otherwise while working.

Furthermore, to escape, I felt a need to compose the works into other worldly Seascapes. Having grown up in Cyprus, and living abroad for 10 years, the return to the Mediterranean island made me realize how much I had missed the power of the sun and sea. There is a force that binds us all to both: Energy and Life. The works are a
personal abstract celebration of these superior “God” like natural elements.

“LIGHT HEADED” Sculptures.

Sculptures have been a core to my practice, as I am able to physically mold the clay by hand into physical expressions of myself. I consider these sculptural works as self-portraits, and portraits of people in my life. In a fine line between cute and grotesque, these cartoonesque sculptures are deeply personal and explore connections between childhood memories, sexual deviancy, identity and culture.

The tongues of each sculpture play an important part in its identity and are always key. In the current body of work “Light Headed” for instance, the tongues represent the sun, settling in the mouths of these characters. They have the speckled meditative strokes, that give the works motion, energy, and the urgency of time.

Andreas Stylianou

Upcoming Exhibition

Dec 10th – Dec 26th 2021

Tuesday – Sunday Noon – 7pm