The one thing to learn from Stephen Ives' Mr. Dictator Head series is that dictators seem to have similar facial features. It's a strange observation, but it's what led to these hilarious pieces in the first place.
Ives' Mr. Dictator Head takes the classic Mr. Potato Head toy and gives it a few horrifying modifications. Instead of a plastic model of a potato, it has now been changed to a skull which is fitting considering the subject at hand. Then, of course, there are different pieces of hair, eyes and ears that are distinct features to some of the most infamous dictators of all time. The sculptural series include faces such as Adolf Hitler, Kim Jong-il and Saddam Hussain.
It's kind of terrifying how the dictators look similar to one another.
Face-Assembling Oppressors
'Mr. Dictator Head' by Stephen Ives Gets Inspired by a Classic Toy
Trend Themes
1. Dictator-inspired Art - Creating art pieces that depict dictators with unique and humorous twists can disrupt traditional artistic representation.
2. Modified Toy Collectibles - Modifying classic toys like Mr. Potato Head into unique and distinct characters can disrupt the collectibles market by creating niche and unique items.
3. Perception of Dictatorship - Analyzing the similarities in facial features amongst dictators can disrupt the perception of power, authority, and dictatorship.
Industry Implications
1. Art - The art industry can explore the potential of creating unique and thought-provoking pieces inspired by dictators with a touch of humor.
2. Toy Collectibles - The toy collectibles industry can consider modifying classic toys or creating new collectibles that incorporate elements of history and politics.
3. Social Commentary - The field of social commentary can utilize the observation of dictators' similar facial features as a tool to provoke discussions and challenge societal perceptions.