MODERN ICONS
Pop-Smack by Scott Bruce provide a high visual impact on the viewer, but also a rich cultural impact. Pop Smackers are a fascinating exploration of creative influences, from familial ties to cultural experiences. The connections drawn between the creator’s grandfather's butcher background, the La Brea Tar Pits, Dick Balch's car dealership antics, Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural techniques, Persian bas reliefs, and iconic figures like Andy Warhol and Jeff Koons offer a rich tapestry of inspiration.
Specifically, It is important to acknowledge that every artist draws inspiration from various sources and artists who came before them.
The artist names several specific influences I found fascinating and want to dive into:
• His Grandfather, who was a butcher: He does mention that his Grandfather's profession and the experiences he had with him in Seattle’s Pike Place Market influenced his perspective on deconstructing and refashioning things.
• The La Brea Tar Pits: As a child, Scott was fascinated by the idea of Pleistocene animals being trapped in LA’s tar pits, and I can see that this theme can be visualized in the work.
• Dick Balch, a Seattle car dealer: The artist does mention that Dick Balch's low-budget commercials, in which he destroyed Chevrolet cars, taught him that an object's value can be enhanced by its destruction.
• Frank Lloyd Wright's use of ceramics in architecture: During a visit to Taliesin West, the artist’s eyes were amazed by Wright's integration of antique ceramics into the walls of his house. This contrast between the delicate porcelain and the rough surrounding materials influenced the perspective on unexpected beauty.
• Persian bas reliefs: During his time in the Shah’s Iran, the artist visited Persepolis and was struck by the massive reliefs that depicted ancient Persian life. The dramatic shadows and impressions they created left an impression on him.
• Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Pop Art: The creator of Pop Smackers does mention how Warhol and Koons, as influential figures in Pop Art, have inspired his work. Their use of consumer iconography and scaling up commonplace objects have influenced the approach in creating art that blurs the line between what is or is not art.
Overall, Scott highlights the diverse influences that have contributed to his artistic process and perspective. By acknowledging these influences, Scott is contextualizing his work within a larger tradition and showing how various sources have shaped his artistic vision.
The narrative effectively conveys how diverse elements coalesce to shape your artistic perspective. The references to cultural antecedents and the tradition of challenging the past add depth to the overall theme of Pop-Smack.
The art itself are bright broken ceramics against a matte cement background, giving a harmonious contrast. I enjoy the themes, both social and personal. These are close to modern icons that are easily attainable.