I genuinely adore this piece!
Not only does it resonate with a style/genre of art that holds a special place in my heart (as a former graphic designer who frequently worked in this style) – but it also transports me back to the era I grew up in.
In my youth, we were surrounded by artists like Nagel, Lichtenstein, Hockney, Thiebaud, Warhol, and many others. Musicians like Duran Duran, George Michael, INXS, The Cure, Prince, Phil Collins, and a few others were also influential. Additionally, MTV played a significant role with groundbreaking videos like “Take On Me” by A-Ha, “Money for Nothing” by Dire Straits, “Sledgehammer” by Peter Gabriel, and “Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran. Speaking of MTV, let’s not forget Max Headroom!
Arcade games and the advent of home video games were also a part of our daily lives. We had classics like Spy Hunter, Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, QBert, Tron, Donkey Kong, Mario, and Zelda.
We were constantly exposed to cutting-edge art and thought-provoking concepts.
This piece serves as a profound tribute to that era, incorporating elements from my youth. While it may appear simple, it is intricate, drawing from various influences.
The title itself holds significance as well. George Michael, during his time with WHAM!, composed the catchy song “Freedom” for their groundbreaking second studio album. Later, during his solo career, he created “Freedom! ’90”. This new song, with a familiar title, was a courageous declaration of embracing and honoring oneself, achieving true alignment. In appreciation of this incredible era and its profound impact on my artistic development, as well as to honor my current state and future aspirations, I named this piece “Freedom! ’26”.
May you enjoy and appreciate this work of art as much as I do and always honor who you are now, and where you are going.
“Freedom! ‘26” (framed)
36×36
Acrylic, POSCA
Jan 2026
