The idea is to show a figure crossing over two ` scripts’ with a bilingual suggestion. By standing in between worlds, we see opposing viewpoints.
Many artists have incorporated typography as symbols in their paintings since the 60s, but no one has attempted to approach lines in this `written’ manner. How different it is are the two writing styles of the East and the West; one with angular lines while the other in a smooth flow! This work juxtaposes the symbolism of cultures – script. At the same time, it questions the need to grasp the full meaning of the script to appreciate the aesthetic flow of calligraphic lines.
Here's Kermit and Gonzo out for a ride. And if you can read sheet music then you will see this is the start of the Muppet Show theme tune Gonzo is playing.
Whether the script in the background is an actual sutra is not the concern, even if it is, would it be readable to most? I question the use of lines in Calligraphy. Without the recognition of the exact words or meaning, can we still appreciate the quality and skills involved? Armed with a Chinese writing foundation, I adapted the use of the eight strokes (the basis of construction to Chinese character). The `writings’ resembles Chinese/Japanese writings but in fact, they are not. I needed a texture. With language as a symbol of culture, by visually adapting these kind of lines endears us to the image.
From left to right (countries and their names):
Belarus- Alena Sokolova
Czech Republic-Iveta Cerna
Hungary-Maida Valko
Ukraine- Olena Karpenko
Poland- Albinka Debski
Markers and Pens
-Sailor Shikiori Dual Tip Brush Pens
-Micron Pens
-Copic Markers
-Posca Markers
-Staedtler Double Ended Permanent Pens
-Faber Castell Pitt Artist Pens
-Gelly Roll Pens
-Uni Ball Signo Pens
-Marvy Artist Double Sided Permanent Pens
-Mark’s Tous Le Jours Ballpoint Pen
etc…
Colored Pencils
-Caran d’ache luminance
-Holbein Artist colored pencils
-Tombow Irojiten
-Derwent Lightfast
-Faber Castell Polychromos
-Caran d’ache Pablo
Etc…
Additionally I used Supracolor watercolor pencils, Staedtler Mars Lumograph EE Pencil, and various types of Zebra Pens.
This illustration is inspired by a popular show "Alice in Borderland". This is the scene where Banda and Yaba walk together as equal partners. Their trust and equality were key in defeating the Jack of Hearts.
This is my contribution to a Diversity and Unity Mural. The meaning behind it is how we are all different and have our own backgrounds, but we're all connected to each other like the roots show. We are stronger unified, and our progression in making the world a better place is like this plant, it can only grow with care and under the right conditions. Together we can make a better future, while still keeping our roots because of their importance to our identities.
Thoughtful comics by author/illustrator Dale Rogers. I'm retiring from an 18-year career as full-time faculty in Multimedia Design. It's time to write and draw. Follow me at https://edrawingboard.com.
