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# Haunting Nightmare-Inducing Paintings
These Christine Wu Illustrations Play on Provocative Themes

By Trenton Millar | Published 2012-08-14 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/christine-wu-illustrations
References: [juxtapoz](http://www.juxtapoz.com/Current/the-works-of-christine-wu) & [misschristinewu](http://misschristinewu.com/about/)

This sampling of Christine Wu illustrations is a moody and emotional set of pieces that touch on some darker themes. Wu's art tends towards a dreamy/nightmarish vision. Her [multi-layered work](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/multimedia-art-installation) sees people overlaid with [haunting faces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/anima) and blurred backgrounds. You can almost hear her paintings asking, "Why so serious?" She likes to depict people in times of transition, when they are most vulnerable, but also when they are most able to discover themselves.

Christine Wu is an LA-based artist, illustrator and designer. She received her degree in illustration from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena. Wu is a artist with a youthful and edgy approach to her work. She is a self-described "general awesome maker."

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.4/10
- Popularity: 62% | Activity: 31% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign)

## Key Themes

### What's Driving This Trend

- **Dark Art:** Opportunity for innovative marketing campaigns, products, or services utilizing provocative and unconventional themes.
- **Abstract Expressionism:** Opportunity for new art movements, art therapy practices, or artistic collaborations that explore and redefine emotional expression through abstract techniques.
- **Psychedelic Revivalism:** Opportunity for businesses in fashion, music, or event industries to create immersive experiences that evoke surreal and distorted realities.

### Who This Affects Most

- **Fine Arts:** Opportunity for galleries, museums, or institutions to showcase contemporary art that challenges traditional perceptions and aesthetics.
- **Mental Health:** Opportunity for therapists, counselors, or mental health organizations to incorporate art therapy as a complementary treatment for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma.
- **Entertainment:** Opportunity for film, television, or gaming industries to incorporate dark and surreal themes in storytelling, set design, or character development for a more immersive and captivating experience.

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