Illustration Social Issues
#activism #childhood #humor #Yuko Shimizu
Uncanny Scenarios Unfold in Whimsical and Ironic Illustrations by Yuko Shimizu
“Balloons.” All images © Yuko Shimizu, shared with permission
Abundance, repetition, and a tinge of irony accompany a cast of humans and animals through uncanny scenarios in Japanese artist Yuko Shimizu’s illustrations. Her whimsical subjects are often playful and humorous, like a pet dog in a sweater with red stripes that matches its youthful owner’s swimming suit, the pair flanked by numerous balloons in the shape of lifebuoys. In contrast, a more grave undertone emerges in “Me Too,” a reference to the #MeToo movement, as a woman stands on a mountain of eyes and attempts to brush countless more off of her body.
Drawing inspiration from myriad sources, including Japanese culture and current events, Shimizu’s compositions are characterized by a sense of action and obscure narrative. You can follow more of her work on Instagram.
“Catman”
Detail of “Balloons”
“Dutch Tulips”
“Little Nemo”
“Me Too”
Detail of “Me Too”
“Fisherman”
#activism #childhood #humor #Yuko Shimizu
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