Tyler Hobbs at VFA, Art Miami
The Art Miami Fair is always an exciting, uplifting event. This year it was better than ever, thanks to the visit by generative artist, Tyler Hobbs. Hobbs showcased his latest ioStream project at the VFA booth. “At this point I’m primarily known for my digital art, but the lovely aspect of a physical event is the opportunity to show works that cross the digital/analog boundary," Hobbs said, "We ourselves coexist in both spaces, and work that reflects that is especially meaningful to me”.
An artist who holds a degree in Computer Science, Hobbs' generative artworks are some of the most sought-after in the art world. His works have been exhibited at NFT.NYC, Art Dubai, the Seattle Art Fair, Bright Moments Gallery in New York, Unit London, and many other international events and venues. Christie’s, Sotheby’s and Phillips have included his work in their auctions.
Takashi Murakami and Yoshitomo Nara
Like Mickey Mouse is to America, Doraemon, the robot cat, is to Japan. Doraemon loosely translates to 'stray'. The anime cat was created in 1969 by artist Fujiko F. Fujio. Doraemon's back-story is that he was created in a robot factory in 2112 but did not meet the high standards of the factory. He was taken in by a Japanese family, whose son sent Doraemon back in time to help his great-great-grandfather create a better future for the family.
Timothy J. Craig, author of Japan Pop: Inside the World of Japanese Popular Culture, wrote, "Though Doraemon is himself a high-tech product, he possesses an endearing personality that captivates young audiences. He is both a full member of Nobita's family and an intimate friend to Nobita and his companions. Portrayed in this way, Doraemon represents the optimistic view of the relationship between technology and humanity."
The character of Doraemon is considered 'subversive' in China and is banned in Pakistan.
In 2020, Bruce Willis played Doraemon in a commercial for the Japanese megacorporation SoftBank's 5G cell plan. Willis wore a blue hoodie and Doraemon's bell around his neck.
A Doraemon Exhibition has been held in Tokyo for many years. For the first time in history, the exhibit will be shown outside of Japan, at the National Museum of Singapore.
Twenty-eight of Japan's most well-known contemporary artists were asked to create their own interpretations of Doraemon for the exhibit, including Takashi Murakami and Yoshitomo Nara.
The Doraemon Exhibit at the National Museum in Singapore will be on display through February 5, 2023.
Please contact us if you would like more information about the work of Tyler Hobbs, Takashi Murakami and Yoshitomo Nara available at VFA.
References:
Rory Kejzerko. Tyler Hobbs Showcases New ‘ioStream’ Works At Art Basel Miami. Blockbuster. November 30, 2022. November 30, 2022.
Jex Exmundo. Miami Art Week Live Blog Day 1: The Gateway and Beyond/Tyler Hobbs holds showcase for a new generative art collection. NFTNow.
Digital Staff. The 20 Top-Selling NFT Artists to Collect Right Now. Ocean Drive. November 14, 2022.
Singapore Tourism Board. National Museum of Singapore Presents the First Doraemon Exhibition Held Outside of Japan. December 1, 2022.