ALIAM ARTEM OSTEND
Grand Commandor Luis the Dog
Oil paint on canvas 2019 - 2020
A Basset Hound in Spanish armour, a red sash across his chest against a dark brown backdrop, with faded-out words in the top-left corner. Look at his eyes. He has that 'out to conquer the world' look. But instead of that, did you notice the frame? That’s a nice frame.
Nicholas the Dog
Oil paint on canvas 2020
Nicholas the Dog. The rich, blue background is a status symbol to show off one's wealth. Only possible from grinding the purest lapis lazuli gemstones. The more blue you had in a commissioned painting, the more money you had. Well, back in 1572, that is. Eh? What’s that? No, there aren’t any lapis lazuli gemstones in this work. Spent it all on avocado toast.
Portrait of possibly a Nun the Dog
Oil paint on canvas 2021 - 2022
So, is she a nun or not? Wait, is Alvise her husband? They're looking at each other so intently, so she can't be a nun then. Too many unanswered questions, maybe make an insightful ‘hmm’ so you sound sophisticated, then walk away. Gotta say, though, really nice looking background going on here.
Portrait of Alvise the Dog
Oil paint on canvas 2021 - 2022
A simple painting for a simple man. To his left, his villa; to his right, his job. A merchant, sailor, or perhaps the owner of a shipping company? He is looking to the right. Is that his wife?
Louis and Sisters the Dogs
Oil paint on canvas 2020 - 2021
Louie dressed in royal blues and wearing a golden, gemstone-laden crown. Hands together, in prayer… Wait, did you notice the babies? Are they mummies? Is that why he is praying? Oh man, better put on your thinking face.
Portrait with Nightshades and Forget-me-nots the Dog
Oil paint on canvas 2023 - 2024
The nightshade flower's meaning is Belladonna, which translates to 'beautiful woman.' Renaissance women used it to dilate their pupils, considered attractive at the time. Unfortunately, nightshades are poisonous; each drop damages the eyes and, with prolonged use, leads to blindness.
She also has forget-me-nots. Wonder who she had in mind when commissioning this painting.
Portrait with Hairpin the Dog
Oil paint on canvas 2021 - 2023
A Basset Hound in an uptight dress, hand resting on an ornate wooden chair, posing with a hairpin, perhaps gifted to her. A red curtain is draped behind. Oh hey, you reached the end of the show. Feeling more intelligent and sophisticated? Welcome to highbrow society; now where's that wine glass?
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Vivian’s work delves into the whimsical realm of Basset Hound portraiture, drawing inspiration from the esteemed European painting tradition. Through this stylistic choice, she engages in a playful critique of the pretensions often associated with the art world.
By depicting dogs in the grandeur of classical portraiture, she challenges the elevated status bestowed upon certain subjects in art. The adoption of the European portraiture style, often revered for its aristocratic representations, allows her to subvert the notions of highbrow exclusivity. In doing so, she draw parallels to the kitsch art movement, deliberately blurring the lines between high and low art.
The juxtaposition of regal poses and noble settings with the loveable, familiar presence of dogs invites viewers to question the perceived hierarchy of subject matter in art.
Furthermore, her artistic exploration intertwines with the contemporary commercialisation of art. The portrayal of dogs within this classical framework serves as a commentary on the commodification of art in today's market-driven society. It prompts reflection on how the value and reception of art often intertwine with trends, consumerism, and market demands.
Through her work, she aims to dismantle the notion of artistic elitism by embracing a subject matter that is universally beloved. By blending classical aesthetics with a touch of playful irreverence, she invite viewers to reconsider the boundaries of art, challenge notions of artistic worth, and contemplate the clash of commercialisation and creative expression in the modern world.