The still life work of artist and photographer Christina Burns, which make up the series titled 'Through the Mirror,' is delightfully morbid. Christina Burns juxtaposes skulls and pills with flowers and candy. Thrown into the mix are childhood toys including Disney princess figurines and other kitschy knickknacks. Each still life forms a sort of ink blot due to its mirrored nature, hence its name.
Born in El Puerto de Santa Maria, Spain, Christina Burns is inspired in part by the Oniric movement, which stemmed from a surrealist Romanian literary school most popular during the 1960s. Beautiful Decay observes, "The meticulous symmetry of Burns’s compositions heightens the idea of supernatural harmony between purity and sin, between life and death." It also explores the role of women and men in abstract ways.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Morbid Still Lifes
- Exploring the juxtaposition of death and life in still life compositions presents an opportunity for artists and designers to create thought-provoking and visually captivating work.
- Mirror-inspired Art
- Utilizing mirrored elements in art allows for unique perspectives and the exploration of dualities, providing artists and photographers with a chance to challenge traditional notions.
- Oniric Influence
- Drawing inspiration from the Oniric movement, artists can tap into the dreamlike and surreal aspects of their work, creating intriguing and imaginative pieces.
Where This Applies
- Art and Photography
- By embracing the morbid and exploring contrasting elements, artists and photographers can push boundaries and create captivating and thought-provoking art.
- Design and Visual Communication
- Incorporating mirror-inspired elements into design and visual communication can offer fresh and unique approaches, capturing attention and engaging viewers in new ways.
- Literature and Creative Writing
- Drawing upon the Oniric movement in literature and creative writing can spark innovative and imaginative storytelling, allowing for the exploration of surreal themes and concepts.
