Brandon Jacobs-Mills

"figure with map, heliostat"
Acrylic on Canadian White Wood Panel

20"x24"

May 2011

Years ago, the internet brought to my attention a fascinating communication network, used in the Southwest during the late 19th century to monitor and attack Native Americans. This idea, four shots of espresso, some art supplies, and a deadline produced this work, the first of many to come, I hope.

MAPS: "Journey"

Linda Beck

"Journey"
Acrylic on Paper

2011

This triptych represents three stages of a journey.

(Fruit Bat Detail)
Stage One: Wrapped up safely and snugly in its own wings,
the fruit bat's form remains a mystery.

(Lung Detail)
Stage Two: An organ appears to function normally,
but closer inspection reveals that a large segment
is riddled with lakes and ponds.

(Lotus Flower Detail)
Stage 3: The lotus flower offers a chance for rebirth and enlightenment:
A beacon to mark the close of this journey
and perhaps the beginning of a new one.

MAPS: "Get Lost"

"Get Lost"

Acrylic on Vinyl

2011

I got a blank Munny doll some time ago and I've been meaning to paint it. Once the theme came up, I had planned several other ideas before I remembered the Munny. I love the look of the fantasy maps of Tolkien and similar artists. The way they simplify topographic features into symbolic representations, along with the variations in earth tones used, appealed to me. I made a conscious choice to not have the topographic features mimic the features on a human body and instead act as a map superimposed onto the doll. Overall, I'm quite happy with it.

MAPS: SPAM!

"SPAM!"

Acrylic on Canvas.

This is a play on the word 'maps'. Spelled backwards it is 'spam'.
On the lid of every can of spam is an embossed floral design that seems
out of place. What was the company's thinking behind this design?
Does it make the product more desirable and appealing?
These questions inspired me to present a can of Spam
in a playful and beautiful way.

*I have never consumed, nor plan to ever ingest this product.

Stage One: "MAPS"

First Mini Gallery Opening
of the Mary Mallon Social Club @ La Galeria de Bek... er... Beck.
This month's theme selected by Mrs. Beck: "Maps"
Artwork to be posted soon!