Contemporary Artists for Kids: Mantra
When muralist Mantra, a.k.a. Youri Rea, was a child he wanted to be a naturalist when he grew up. Naturalists collect and identify species. Mantra's enormous murals turn buildings into butterfly and insect specimen cases. The trompe l'oeil insects appear to be behind glass and recessed into the side of the building. Mantra paints the insects and their shadows which heightens the optical illusion.1
His murals can be found around the world. When he prepares to paint a mural, he studies the insect species native to the location and portrays them in their giant specimen boxes. For Mantra, "...education about environmental care and issues is part of the goal." 2
Many muralists use a grid or a projector to help with placement. Mantra spray paints all of his murals freehand without the use of these devices. In addition to insects, many of his murals depict people and animals.
When asked if he had any words of advice for aspiring new artists, he said, "Always respect yourself. Respect everybody around you and who you meet along the way. Accept those who will follow your path, and understand the ones who chose to find another direction. Stay focus (sic) on your own way, because it is as unique as you are. " 2
Pop up Art School’s mission is to introduce children to living, breathing artists. We believe it's important for kids to see that art is being made in the here and now.
Mantra is one of the artists that we are featuring in our virtual Art Club for kids. Every four weeks we spotlight a new contemporary artist and families receive three pre-recorded lessons and one lesson taught live via Zoom.
Links
Mantra’s Instagramaccount
Mantra’s Facebook account
Resources
1 Emma Taggart, "Street Artist Turns Buildings into Gigantic Butterfly Specimen Cases", mymodernmet.com, October 21, 2017
2 Sami Wakim, “Interview with Mantra”, Street Art United States, March 21, 2017
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