“I just paint things I always thought were beautiful,
things you use every day and never think about.”
- Andy Warhol
SERIES A: PORTRAITS OF EMOJIS 😸
More than hundred unique paintings (acrylic, canvas, 16”x16'‘) inspired by iOS emojis. Series completed.
SERIES B: PORTRAITS OF AMBITIONS 👑
Fifteen unique paintings (acrylic, canvas, 16”x16”) inspired by emerging tech brands. Series ongoing.
SERIES C: PORTRAITS OF ICONS (vintage) 📲
Seven unique paintings (acrylic, canvas, 16”x16” and 24”x24”) inspired by the home screen of my phone. Series completed.
MEET THE ARTIST 👩🏻🎨
Similar to Andy Warhol, who “just painted things we see every day”, I paint images that billions of modern people see every day. We send and receive emojis, tap on icons on our phones, drive or walk next to road signs, enjoy things from our favorite brands.
***
Each of these images is so emotionally charged! When we see one, it immediately fires up millions of neurons in our brains. It may bring up a smile or a sense of sadness, it may make us to recall a memory or recommit to a dream. These reactions are instant and unconscious, but I believe these images deserve a closer look and a slower thought.
***
I hand-paint their portraits to give us a chance to slow down and reflect on what they mean to us.
***
These signs are universally recognizable and yet, their meanings are unique for every one of us. Naming a painting, I share with you what a sign means to me. When you see the painting, you may think of something different. You may be surprised by the title I gave it. You may want to argue with me. You may be curious why I have such an association. Every reaction is ok - it sparkles a conversation. It means my mission is accomplished.
***
Hi, I’m Julia Lorien. I am a self-taught artist. Born in Ukraine, I live and work in San Francisco.
If you wanted a portrait of something meaningful to you - I got you 😉
Follow me on Instagram @portraitsofsymbols 👇🏻
