Alex Katz

alexkatzTate describes figurative art as any form of modern art that retains strong references to the real world and particularly to the human figure. Alex Katz is such a painter known primarily for his large portraiture and landscape paintings. His work is inspired by the woodcuts of Japanese artist Kitagawa Utamaro with their flatness of color, bold simplicity and a feeling of cool but emotional detachment. We’ve posted his work because on December 1st his paintings will feature prominently on H & M womenswear, menswear, accessories and home decor.

Images: Courtesy of Alex Katz.

Mika Hirasa

mikahirasaAttracted to the unique artisan style of Japanese illustrator and embroidery artist, Mika Hirasa, who freelances under the name, “Micao”. She draws pictures using a combination of machine sewing, hand embroidery, applique and fabric painting, all of which were self-taught. Her work ranges from advertisement for major companies to cover art for books and magazines, and even collaborative works with a household goods manufacturer.

You can follow her on her website, Facebook and Behance.

Images: Courtesy of Mika Hirasa.

Laura Spring

lauraspringAdmiring the bold prints and vibrant colors of Glasgow-based textile designer and maker, Laura Spring. A graduate of Glasgow School of Arts she creates these grpahic prints and transforms them into fashion accessories through screen and digital processes. In an article on Heal’s blog the artist says this about what inspires her:

“Inspiration varies from collection to collection but as I mentioned previously I have been inspired by motifs relating to the function of the object it adorns. More recently I have been inspired by the use of camouflage in nature, specifically how butterflies and zebras use mimicking or colouration techniques to hide from predators.”

“I think nature and all it’s wonder has been having a bigger influence on my work since I did a residency in rural Finland last summer where nature is considered hugely important and people seem much more connected to it.”

“I enjoy working with a process,
creating physical things and
seeing them come to life.”

You can follow the designer in her website, Facebook and Instagram. Her products can be purchased here on Etsy.

Images: Courtesy of Laura Spring.

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