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The Cult of Cute

Monday, July 19, 2010 · 2 Comments

I use the word “cute” to describe this wave of independent art which has a peculiar aesthetic, mixing the light nature of children’s art with adult quirkiness and more serious tones. Whereas Japanese anime and childrens’ book illustration, both influences of this genre, stick to a visual code that is obvious and transparent, this art can have a darker side. For me it can, at times, feel a bit sad, but whatever the reaction the take-away is that this art is not as one-sided as it seems.

Despite the subtle complexity, this art celebrates the silly little things in life that make us content: pets, tea, knitting, rain. It un-apologetically takes a low-brow and childish bent- unsophisticated colors like pink and yellow and plain compositions of quirky little animals. It’s art that is unpretentious in nature and pleasing and happy.

Tags: Art

2 responses so far ↓

  • 1 Sherin // Dec 28, 2014 at 2:27 pm

    That was a fun link. I’ve never heard of Kate Cebrano before but I loved ltieinsng to her audio links. She really does have a lovely voice. It looks like from her biography that she has been making albums in Australia forever!! I can see why you enjoyed meeting her.Love the fabric in the table runner :))

  • 2 Abdul // Apr 3, 2015 at 2:54 pm

    Hey Sandra,Just wanted to let you know that I haven’t fogterton about you. Gene and I lefton 10/21 and returned today 10/31. We went to Branson, Mo. Even though Idid not have access to a computer, my prayers contiued for you. Glad to hearyou are in a room now and your appetite is improving. So sorry that you had sucha rough time during this last week. I’ll try to call you tomorrow since it is so lateright now.Love you, Jane

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