Kid Stuff » Gallery Piece

Space Outlaw

Space Outlaw, Greg Hildebrandt
Space Outlaw
Artist:
Price:
Available:
Size:

Greg Hildebrandt
$15000
0
38 X 52





Description:
The Space Outlaw, the second Kid Stuff painting by Greg Hildebrandt to feature one of his Ray Guns, continues the artist's exploration of the progress and demise of mankind. Once again, Hildebrandt has provided a unique perspective on the internal structure of man and his desire to wield limitless power. Inspired by the science fiction imagery from his youth, Hildebrandt paints the imagery in an unquestionably light-hearted style. Creating a character that is a paradox unto himself. One that fears death yet enjoys delivering it.

Greg Hildebrandt (American, b. 1939)
The Space Outlaw, May 2021
Acrylic on Canvas
Framed
38 X 52 inches (96.52 X 132.08 cm)

Some of his most intriguing and thought-provoking works to date, Kid Stuff is the latest collection of still-life paintings by Greg Hildebrandt. In this series, Hildebrandt explores the passage of time and the deterioration that naturally comes with age by cracking the seal on his toy chest and exposing the viewer to its inhabitants. By painting his childhood toys as they appear now, weathered and torn, Greg Hildebrandt masterfully evokes simultaneous feelings of nostalgia and unease; Bringing a smile to the face, all the while knowing that something is not quite right. In these larger-than-life depictions, the artist carefully renders every detail, paying particular attention to the way the light scatters across the surface, highlighting every crack, wrinkle, fold, and blemish.
Using a spotlighting technique, Greg Hildebrandt paints a stark contrast between the subject and the darkened abyss in which it sits, establishing compositions that confront the viewer and demand attention. Despite the darkened persona with which these puppets first appear, the viewer can surmise the love and affection Hildebrandt has for the toys themselves through the subtle brushwork. By rendering these toys with such exquisite detail, Hildebrandt has elevated the subjects above their earthly status. Capturing their portraits is the highest honor he can bestow.
With this in mind, it is clear that naming the series Kid Stuff is a tongue-in-cheek swipe at the establishment that has so often looked down on things Hildebrandt is passionate about, refusing to acknowledge the artistry and dismissing it as Kid Stuff.