# Social Surrealist Illustrations Koren Shadmi Renders Technologically Critical Illustrations By Sophia Pelka | Published 2012-03-14 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/koren-shadmi1 References: [english.mashkulture.net](http://english.mashkulture.net/2012/03/13/the-art-of-koren-shadmi/) & [korenshadmi](http://korenshadmi.com/about/) Koren Shadmi has a skill for combining engaging [comic illustrations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/illustrations-ai) with highly critical statements. His latest collection throws the spotlight on human interaction and the interference of technology. The works are thought provoking and curious. Shadmi combines [bizarre compositional tactics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/surreal-street-art-1) with normative, routine scenes to create a relatable fantasy. A particularly memorable piece features a suave man sitting on a couch, eating sushi with delicate hands. The subject is watching television, starring directly at a caveman reflection of himself. The impact is immediate and humorous. Koren Shadmi is a Brooklyn-based artist. His graphic novels have been publish and distributed internationally. Shadmi has been commissioned by such major publications as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek and [Spin](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spin-collection). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.3/10 - Popularity: 96% | Activity: 85% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Techno-critical Art:** There is a growing trend of artists creating thought-provoking illustrations that explore the relationship between humans and technology, presenting opportunities for technology companies to partner with artists to create more engaging content. - **Surrealism in Illustration:** The use of bizarre compositional tactics in illustration is gaining popularity and presenting an opportunity for brands to create unique and memorable campaigns by partnering with illustrators. - **Social Commentary Through Comic Illustrations:** The trend of combining critical statements with engaging comic illustrations is gaining traction, offering opportunities for media and publishing companies to create more impactful content. ### Who This Affects Most - **Art and Design:** The art and design industry can benefit from the growing trend of techno-critical art, using it as a source of inspiration for new works and designs. - **Technology:** Technology companies can partner with artists to create engaging and thought-provoking content that explores the relationship between humans and technology, attracting and retaining customers. - **Media and Publishing:** Media and publishing companies can capitalize on the trend of social commentary through comic illustrations by commissioning artists to create impactful content that resonates with their audiences. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Limited Humorous Art Prints](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/david-shrigley-1.md) - [AI-Generated Retrofuturistic Objects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retrofuturistic-objects.md) - [Digital Archetype Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/christian-rex-van-minnen-1.md) - [Raunchy Anime-Inspired Exhibitions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/manuela-soto-sosa.md) - [Human Duality-Themed Abstract Art](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/passive-aggression.md) - [Art-Tech Zine Collaborations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/twentynine-zine.md) - [Apocalypse Post Pandemic Art](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/contemporary-urban-art.md) - [Digital City-Inspired Art Works](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grand-central-station.md) - [Mind-Bending Graphic Novels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/incal.md)