STEPHEN GIBB
EXISTENTIAL EDITORIAL CARTOON REALISM
Amherstburg, ON, CANADA
STEPHEN GIBB
Stephen Gibb employs the time-tested methods of traditional oil painting to represent the world in a somewhat realistic way, though the world he presents is far from realistic. Within the allegorical universe he creates, Gibb is more interested in inventing new symbols than relying on derivative or trite content. His focus is on creating, not recreating, and the pop surrealist nature of his work allows him to tap into raw thoughts and emotions at their core, rather than relying on external references. Gibb exploits conventions and archetypes from fairy tales, folklore, and cartoons, mapping them onto contemporary existential, psychological, and social issues. This results in imagery that playfully challenges the viewer to look beyond the vibrant surface and engage with a deeper, more profound understanding. Iconic images and associations create a relatable narrative, offering viewers the opportunity to deconstruct, meditate upon, or expound upon the work from their own personal perspectives. At the heart of his creative process, Gibb captures the genesis moment of inspiration and channels that wave of energy directly into the artwork.
Filters
BIOGRAPHY
STEPHEN GIBB
University of Windsor BFA graduate and painter, Stephen Gibb, is consumed by the magic and mystery of art — the magic being the uncanny effect art has cognitively and viscerally on us; the mystery being the unknowable, open-ended aspects that draws us into the artwork and into ourselves. The allegorical nature of his art blends narrative with colour and vision science to enhance his visually overloaded images.
His work is neither weighted in favour of aesthetic or concept — it combines both, and respects the genius of the viewer to explore the depths of the construction and composition.
Gibb’s commissioned work has become inspirational to a generation of Hip-Hop fans, exposing millions to his work through album art. As well, he was recently a finalist in one of Canada’s biggest art prizes, the Art Comp at 100 Kellogg in London ON and was the third-place recipient in the people’s choice awards at the exhibit. His willingness to juror, curate and organise exhibits while also contributing to the Control Group collective illustrates his commitment to the art community around him.
As a student of Surrealism, psychology, psychedelic art and cartoons, Gibb has works in collections around the world, and has exhibited internationally with the Pop Surrealism and Lowbrow artists.