History Inspired Art

My artwork is contemporary and inspired by modern culture.  While in Paris however I made a point to visit one of the most historic and treasured galleries of all time--the Louvre. I was surprisingly overwhelmed by my visit. Experiencing classic pieces for the first time is awe-inspiring. For hundreds of years these masterpieces have invoked emotion to their audience. I was no different.

The Louvre is the largest museum in the world and it is nearly impossible to cram all four floors and the thousands of pieces artwork into a single visit. So of what I did manage to see, two sculptures particularly moved me: The Winged Victory of Samothrace and Psyche Revived by Cupid's Kiss.

"Winged Victory of Samothrace"

The Winged Victory of Samothrace (circa 190 BC) is one of the most celebrated sculptures in the world. It has prominently been displayed in the Louvre since 1884. 

The Greek Goddess Nike (Victory) is the goddess of strength, speed and victory. Just being in the same room as her made me feel like I can conquer the world.  This statue represents a strong beautiful woman shining victoriously in her battles. She represents the ultimate in "girl power."


My other favorite is Antonio Canova's 1787 marble sculpture Psyche Revived by Cupid's Kiss. The god Cupid, in the height of love and tenderness, awakens the lifeless Psyche with a kiss. This piece exemplifies the Neoclassical devotion to love and emotion.  Maybe it's just Paris, but I can't help but be drawn to the intimate embrace between 'heart' and 'soul.'

Cupid and Psyche are the ultimate love story. These two heart throbs weren't destined to be together, but their love was so strong that their bond endured all trials and surpassed all expectations. And yes, they lived happily ever after. Nearly every beloved fairy tale and disney movie take root from their epic romance. The moment I laid eyes on them my eyes watered and my heart skipped a beat. Anyone who knows of the deep soulful yearnings that true love brings can't help but be moved by this sculpture.

From fearless females, to storybook endings...the emotions conveyed by these two sculptures stand the test of time. They might influence even the most modern artists still. ;)


Part II.

After feeling so inspired by these two sculptures I was determined to include them into my upcoming Paris street art piece. I sketched out some ideas to incorporate. If the army of VOG men go on dreamlike surf, skate and kite adventues... maybe VOG in Paris should reflect his mood and adventures there.

VOG and his dog would totally skate the bottom

of the Eiffel tower. And in the city of love, VOG angels would stand proud and would totally get in on with his girlfriend, Cupid and psyche style.

I had reached out over the past few weeks to fellow street art friends in Europe, and street art writers to find out where I could do my next VOG installation legally. (**see my London Post for tips on legal tagging)

Rue Denoyez was the place to go. It's an awesome alley-like street and is the only one designated for graffiti artists. Selecting a space to paint isn't easy however because it means tagging over someone else. In surfing, some of the best spots can have real localism on waves. You gotta respect the best local riders. Street artists can be equally territorial.

So...on this street with so much cool talent I took a good long look before making a decision. Per usual, the new VOG space feels obvious....


I started with the classic wave with every intent to keep in line with the the Parisian VOG sketches. Paris in the winter however is cold, rainy and dark. Did I mention cold? Due to weather, and time constraints I opted for the classic VOG man tag.  Guess I'll just have to go back to do the other. :)