Un-Bound and Upcycled, The Painted Books of Mike Stilkey

Eclectix first saw Mike’s work in person at the Art For The New World show in Bristol, UK. It was this huge work that greeted you as you came thru the door (above). A wonderful mound of books stacked on edge and painted with the image of a young gothic bride and groom couple. Just loved it! His characters have a nice old world feel, harking back to the Victorian-Edward Gorey-Poe eras, yet modern with a human sensitivity and compassion. Stacked into sculptures they re-imagine a bookcase full of possibilities.

Mike's Website 

This was originally posted on the Eclectix homepage, May 2011, in the Paper & Arts exhibit and issue.

Victorian Meets Peep Show, The Collages of Vahge

New York based artist Vahge creates wondrous collages, most with more than a touch of Victoriana-meets-modern-girl. Other influences invade with hints of girly magazines, steampunk, anthropomorphic critters, fashion hazards  and skeletal elements. They almost feel like historical documents,  tattered and worn snapshot tapestries. With delicate yet strong imagery, they are wise and sullen ladies who dare. Her work is all cut and paste, old style. Unlike most newer digital works, the tactile collage feel survives, popping the edges through-out her imagery.

“Vahge celebrates oddity with elegance.”

Some images cropped to show detail.

Vahge's website - LINK

Originally published in Eclectix, May 2011 with the "Paper & Art" Issue, Volume 7