Art does one of a few things for me. It either puts me to sleep, excites my senses, or stimulates my mind. Generally, I’m hoping for the latter, yet few pieces of art really make me think. James Jean’s illustrations consistently set my imagination afire. ‘XOXO Hugs and Kisses’ from Chronicle Books is a tight postcard collection of his works which you can thumb through in a matter of minutes or get happily lost in for hours. If you’re inclined to share your art, you can even tear out the pages and mail them, exposing your friends and loved ones to a truly rare talent.
So many stories could be written from these illustrations. The forms are both realistic and fantastical, with colors brimming with bold life and deathly pallor, and elements screaming inspiration into all who take it in with an open mind. The price of admission to this visual feast: insanely affordable.
I think I must go draw.
Filed under Reviews by Kelly Hobkirk