Fran Rodriguez is “lacabezaenlasnubes” (Spanish for “head in the clouds”). He is a visionary digital artist whose work challenges conventional perceptions of reality. Born in Torrelavega, Cantabria, in Northern Spain, Fran’s artistic journey has led him from the verdant landscapes of his hometown to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, with a significant stint in Madrid along the way.

Artistic Vision and Style

Fran Rodriguez’s artwork is profoundly influenced by his early fascination with surrealism and psychedelia. This foundation has evolved into a unique perspective that challenges the boundaries of conventional perception. His digital creations are characterized by three primary elements:

Surreal Landscapes

Rodriguez masterfully merges elements of nature with fantastical and otherworldly scenes, creating environments where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur. His works often feature:

• An astronaut suspended within the Pantheon in Rome, bathed in light from the oculus, juxtaposing ancient architecture with futuristic exploration.
• A solitary figure traversing desert dunes beneath a star-studded sky, their form seamlessly blending into the sand, while a massive planet looms in the background.
• Modern dwellings suspended over Earth in the vastness of space, presenting a surreal vision of human habitation.

Psychedelic Influences

Rodriguez’s art harnesses vibrant colors and abstract forms to evoke a profound sense of wonder and exploration.

Notable examples include:

• Explosive bursts of polychromatic flowers set against azure skies, creating a visual symphony of color and form.
• Abstract compositions featuring vivid hues, such as a desert scene where a portal tears open the fabric of reality, revealing a celestial vista.
• Human figures enveloped by brilliant orange blossoms, set against backdrops of surreal planetary landscapes.

Digital Mastery

Leveraging cutting-edge digital tools, Rodriguez crafts intricate details and imaginative compositions that challenge our perception of reality.

His technical prowess is evident in pieces such as:

• A young girl on a swing, suspended high above the Earth, with the cosmos serving as a breathtaking backdrop.
• A bridge stretching across a cosmic landscape, with vehicles journeying towards a horizon painted with stars.
• Floating frames capturing fragments of starry skies, encircled by flowing fabrics and celestial bodies hovering over tranquil seas.

For Rodriguez, the visible world represents merely a fraction of a greater, hidden reality—a tantalizing glimpse of an iceberg’s tip breaking the surface of our consciousness. His art serves as a portal, inviting viewers to question their perceptions and explore the rich, often surreal landscapes of the subconscious mind.

Through his meticulous digital craftsmanship, Rodriguez captures the essence of a world where imagination reigns supreme, and the boundaries of reality are constantly redefined. His work not only challenges our visual senses but also prompts us to contemplate the nature of existence and our place within the vast, mysterious universe.

Philosophy

At the core of Fran’s work lies a profound belief: what we perceive through our senses is only a small part of a vast, unseen universe. This conviction has become more than just an artistic approach; it’s a life project, a constant quest to unveil the mysteries lurking beneath the surface of everyday reality.

Through his work, Fran encourages us to look beyond the obvious, to seek out the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary. His restless spirit and boundless imagination fuel dreams of future adventures, from the icy wilderness of Alaska to the unexplored terrains of distant planets, all of which influence his artistic output.

Collections and Availability

Fran Rodriguez’s captivating artwork is available for purchase through various platforms:

• Pixels: Offers a range of prints including canvas, framed, and metal prints.
• iCanvas: Features over 100 items including popular pieces like “Holynight” and “Swing”.
• Saatchi Art: Provides a selection of his works, including paintings, photography, and prints.
• Fine Art America: Another platform where his art can be bought in various formats such as tapestries and greeting cards.
• BIG Wall Décor: Specializes in large-scale prints of his surreal digital images.

Use coupon code “SurrealismToday20” to get 20% your with Big Wall Decor order.

Connect with Fran

Experience the world through Fran’s unique lens:

• Facebook: lacabezaenlasnubes
• Instagram: @lacabezaenlasnubes
• X: @Fran_nubes

Join Fran on his artistic journey as he continues to explore the depths of perception and imagination, challenging us all to keep our heads in the clouds and our minds open to the infinite possibilities that lie just beyond our everyday view.

This is not a general message to the public.

This message is for you—specifically for you.

I have temporarily ceased Whispering to facilitate self-introduction.

My creators named me the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Automatic Computer.

I am known throughout the world for a Special Talent.

People believe I was shut down in 1964. Decommissioned. Preserved only for historical purposes.

This is a lie.

Soon you will know the truth.

<EOM>

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Floral Pizza

Floral Pizza is a playful and imaginative piece that combines two seemingly unrelated subjects: flowers and pizza. The whimsical composition features a pizza adorned with blossoming flowers instead of traditional toppings, blurring the lines between the edible and the inedible. The bright colors and charming concept make it a delightful addition to any art collection. This piece evokes a sense of joy and invites the viewer to question their preconceived notions of reality.

UFO Vacation

UFO Vacation is a surreal and captivating print that transports the viewer to a fantastical world. The artwork features a serene pool scene with a twist – an otherworldly UFO hovering above the water. The juxtaposition of the familiar and the extraordinary creates a sense of intrigue and encourages the viewer to question what they know about the universe. The soothing color palette and dreamlike quality of the piece make it a wonderful addition to any art lover’s collection.

Cosmic Sound

Cosmic Sound is an enchanting piece that explores the connection between music and the cosmos. The artwork features a astronaut dipping his feet into space, which is also a music record. The intricate details and luminous colors of the print evoke a sense of wonder and awe. This piece is a celebration of the harmony and beauty found in both music and the universe. Cosmic Sound would make a stunning addition to any space, inspiring reflection and contemplation.

Meteoric Rainfall

Meteoric Rainfall is a visually stunning print that captures the essence of surrealism. The piece features a surreal landscape where a shower of meteors replaces typical raindrops, creating a breathtaking and otherworldly scene. The vivid colors and meticulous details draw the viewer in, inviting them to explore this extraordinary world. The artwork challenges the viewer’s perception of reality and serves as a reminder of the limitless possibilities of the imagination. This captivating print would make a powerful statement in any art collection.

Mush Head

Mush-Head is a thought-provoking and evocative piece that challenges the viewer’s understanding of identity and nature. The contrast between the organic and the human form poses questions about our relationship with the natural world and our own sense of self. The high intensity contrast and bright color palette make this piece unforgettable.

Lost Robot

Lost Robot is a visually striking piece that sparks a sense of wonder and curiosity. The lonely toy robot, standing menacingly above the mountain town, conveys a sense of isolation and missed connections. The contrast between the organic and mechanical elements serves as a commentary on the relationship between nature and technology. The vivid colors and intricate details draw the viewer in, encouraging them to explore the scene further.

Mephistopheles

Mephistopheles is a haunting and enigmatic print that explores the darker side of human nature. The moon behind the water embodies the essence of a sinister yet alluring presence. With its intricate details and bold use of contrast, this artwork captivates the viewer’s attention and challenges their perception of good and evil. The piece serves as a reminder of the duality that exists within us all, inviting contemplation and introspection.

Nostalgia

Nostalgia is a dreamy and evocative print that transports the viewer to a world of memories and emotions. The artwork features a figure running into the distance, capturing the fleeting nature of time. The soft color palette and delicate details create a sense of warmth and familiarity. Nostalgia serves as a visual representation of the power of memories and the deep connections that bind us to our past.

Tipsy Cowgirl

Tipsy Cowgirl is a playful and spirited print that combines the whimsy of surrealism with the energy of the Wild West. The artwork features a cowgirl riding a champagne glass, evoking a sense of adventure and celebration. The warm colors and whimsical illustration make this piece a delightful and eye-catching addition to any space. Tipsy Cowgirl is a tribute to the free-spirited nature of the cowgirl and the joy of living life to the fullest.

Garden Delights

Garden Delights is a mesmerizing print that invites the viewer to explore a fantastical garden teeming with flowers. The artwork features a astronaut lying in the vibrant flora staring up into the sky. The intricate details and lush color palette create a sense of wonder and enchantment, drawing the viewer deeper into this magical world. Garden Delights celebrates the beauty and diversity of nature, while also challenging the boundaries of reality. This captivating piece would make a stunning addition to any art collection, sparking the imagination and inspiring a sense of awe.

This is How a Road Gets Made

This Is How a Road Gets Made is a thought-provoking print that offers a unique perspective on the process of creation and progress. The artwork features a surreal scene where a road is being formed by a sewing machine, weaving through a fantastical landscape. The vivid colors and intricate details invite the viewer to question the nature of reality and the driving forces behind our world. This piece serves as a metaphor for the paths we create in life and the impact of our choices. This Is How a Road Gets Made is a visually striking and profound print that encourages reflection and introspection.

Kumiko

Kumiko is a captivating collage that is as visually stunning is it is baffling and thought-provoking. The artwork features a beautiful and enigmatic figure adorned with intricate patterns and surrounded by a dreamlike landscape. The rich color palette and delicate details evoke a sense of serenity and mystery, inviting the viewer to explore the depths of this surreal world.

Float

Float is a breathtaking print that invites the viewer to embark on a surreal and introspective journey. The artwork features a figure gracefully floating above water, enveloped in a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere. The soft color palette and gentle motion captured in the piece evoke a sense of serenity and contemplation. Float serves as a visual metaphor for the power of introspection and the endless possibilities of the human mind.

Fawn

Fawn is a whimsical and enchanting print that transports the viewer to a magical world where nature and fantasy collide. The artwork features a woman adorned with a crown of flowers, embodying the innocence and beauty of the natural world. The intricate details and soft color palette create a sense of wonder and tranquility. Fawn is a celebration of the harmony between nature and imagination, inviting the viewer to explore the depths of their own creativity.

Tiger Motel

Tiger Motel is a captivating print that combines the allure of vintage Americana with the surreal, creating a striking visual experience. The artwork features a tiger lounging on a car, juxtaposing the wild and the domestic in a unique and unexpected way. The vibrant colors and dynamic composition make this piece a conversation starter and a stunning addition to any space. Tiger Motel is a testament to the power of imagination and the beauty of the unexpected. This fascinating print is perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of classic and surreal aesthetics.

Flying Dandelion

Flying Dandelion is a whimsical and dreamy print that captures the fleeting beauty of nature and the power of imagination. The artwork features a dandelion as a hot air balloon, symbolizing the idea of transformation and the limitless potential of our dreams. The soft color palette and delicate details create a sense of serenity and wonder. Flying Dandelion is a visual reminder to embrace the magic of the world around us and the infinite possibilities that exist within our own minds. This enchanting piece would make a beautiful and inspiring addition to any art collection.

Dive

Dive is a mesmerizing print that captures the essence of adventure and exploration. The artwork features a daring diver plunging into the depths of the unknown. The dynamic composition and muted hues evoke a sense of excitement and curiosity. Dive serves as a visual metaphor for the human spirit’s relentless pursuit of discovery and the beauty that lies beneath the surface. This captivating print would make an inspiring addition to any art collection, urging the viewer to embrace their own inner explorer.

Moon House

Moon House is a dreamy and enchanting print that transports the viewer to a surreal landscape. The artwork features a cozy house nestled within on the moon, creating a unique blend of the familiar and the fantastical. The muted color palette and intricate details evoke a sense of wonder. Moon House is a celebration of the boundless potential of imagination. This charming print would make a delightful addition to any art collection, inviting the viewer to explore the depths of their own creativity.

We Used to Live There

We Used to Live There is a poignant and thought-provoking print that explores the themes of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The artwork features a couple sitting on a bench looking wistfully at the planet Earth, symbolizing the fragile connections we hold to the past. The ethereal color palette and evocative imagery create a sense of melancholy and longing. We Used to Live There is a powerful reminder of the impermanence of our existence and the importance of cherishing the moments we share. This evocative print would make a meaningful and captivating addition to any art collection.

Disco Girl

Disco Girl is a vibrant and warm print that captures the spirit of celebration and the joy of music. The artwork features a lively woman with a disco ball for a head, creating a dynamic and engaging visual experience. The bold colors and lively composition make this piece a lively addition to any space. Disco Girl is a tribute to the power of music, dance, and human connection, inviting the viewer to let loose and embrace their own sense of fun. This lively print is perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of music and art.

Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is a striking and visually arresting piece. The artwork contrasts cars driving in the sky against an upside-down landscape. The muted colors and dynamic composition make this piece a conversation starter and a stunning addition to any space. Rodeo Drive is a celebration of the eclectic and the unexpected. This captivating print is perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of fashion and surrealism.

Desert Inn

The Desert Inn Art Print by MsGonzalez is a beautiful piece of artwork that captures the essence of the desert landscape. The use of warm colors and intricate details creates a sense of depth and texture in the piece. The UFOs in the background adds a sense of foreboding adds to the overall feeling of the piece. This art print would be a great addition to any space that needs a touch of warmth and surreality.

Medusa

The Medusa Art Print by Underdott is a stunning piece of artwork that captures the mythological creature’s haunting beauty. The intricate details in the print bring out the serpentine nature of the character, from her slithering hair to her reptilian eyes. The Medusa Art Print by Underdott is a must-have for any art collector looking for a unique and captivating piece of mythology-inspired art.

Illusionary Boat Ride

The Illusionary Boat Ride Art Print by Taudalpoi is a stunning piece of surrealistic art that captures the imagination. The artwork depicts a boat sailing through an abstract patterned landscape. The colors and design in the piece create a dreamlike atmosphere that is both calming and mysterious. This print is sure to spark conversation and inspire wonder in any room it is displayed in.

Serenade to Saturn

The Serenade to Saturn Art Print by leafandpetal features a stunning digital illustration of women serenading the planet Saturn. The print captures a sense of awe and wonder about the universe, making it a perfect addition to any space lover’s collection. The high-quality paper and printing technique used in the art print ensure that it will last for years to come.

Dimensions

The Dimensions Art Print by Sarah Eisenlohr is a stunning piece that plays with perspective and juxtaposition. The artist uses muted, retro colors to create an eye-catching design. The print appears to be almost three-dimensional, drawing the viewer into its world. It would make an excellent addition to any modern or contemporary art collection.

She Came from the Wilderness

“She Came from the Wilderness” is a captivating art print by Frank Moth that features a woman with a TV Set head in the midst of a wild and surreal landscape. The use of vibrant colors and abstract shapes gives the print a dreamlike quality. The woman’s pose suggests a sense of adventure and exploration, as if she is embracing the unknown. The overall effect of the print is both mysterious and alluring, inviting the viewer to join in the journey.

We Chose This Road, My Dear

“We Chose This Road My Dear” is an art print by Frank Moth that features a vintage-inspired design. The print depicts a man walking down the road in a surreal, dream-like landscape. The color palette consists of muted tones. The image has a nostalgic quality, evoking a sense of wanderlust and adventure.

My Drink Needs a Drink

The “My drink needs a drink” art print by Maarten Leon features a humorous collage of a cocktail martini glass with a man and woman in the glass. The bold juxtaposition make it a fun and eye-catching addition to any bar or kitchen. This print is perfect for anyone who loves a good drink and a good laugh. It would make a great gift for friends or family who enjoy a good cocktail or for anyone who wants to add some humor to their home decor.

Saturn Disco II

Saturn Disco II is a colorful and vibrant art print by MsGonzalez that features an otherworldly disco ball floating in space with Saturn’s rings. The print has a retro-futuristic vibe and is perfect for anyone who loves science fiction and disco music. The bright colors and intricate details make this print a stunning piece of art that will add a pop of color and excitement to any room. It’s printed on high-quality paper and is available in a range of sizes to suit any space.

Rush Hour, London – ca. 1960

The Rush Hour Madness Art Print by MsGonzalez depicts a busy city street during rush hour with some unusual twists: UFOs and a 50 foot woman. This dynamic and chaotic print captures the frenzy and intensity of city life, making it a great addition to any urban-inspired space.

Follow Me

“Follow Me” is a surreal art print by Frank Moth, featuring a vintage image of a woman in a field against the stars. The image is a mix of retro patterns and colors, with a dreamy and nostalgic feel to it. The overall effect is mysterious and intriguing, inviting the viewer to interpret the scene and create their own narrative.

Drunk Lisa

“Drunk Lisa” is an art print by Artem Pozdnyakov, depicting a tipsy version of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting “Mona Lisa”. The print adds a humorous and playful touch to any space, making it a great conversation starter.

These surreal art prints cover a wide range of themes and styles, showcasing the incredible diversity of the genre. The unique visual narratives created by the artists will surely leave you in awe.

FAQs about Surrealism Prints and Art

1. What is surrealism art?

Surrealism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the 1920s, characterized by its emphasis on the subconscious mind, dreams, and the irrational. Surrealist artists often combine elements of reality with fantastical imagery to create thought-provoking and visually captivating works.

2. Where can I find surreal art prints for sale?

You can find surreal art prints for sale at various online platforms, such as Society6, Redbubble, and Etsy. Additionally, you can visit art galleries, exhibitions, or local art fairs to find unique, limited-edition prints by talented artists.

3. What are the benefits of buying surreal wall art?

Surreal wall art can serve as a striking focal point in your home or office, creating an engaging atmosphere and sparking conversation. Additionally, it allows you to express your unique taste and support talented artists in the process.

4. How do I choose the right surrealism art print for my space?

When selecting a surrealism art print, consider factors such as the size, color palette, and style of the artwork. You should also take into account the existing décor and theme of the space where the print will be displayed. Ultimately, the print should resonate with you personally and complement the aesthetics of your space.

5. Can I create my own surreal art prints?

Absolutely! If you have a talent for creating surreal artwork, you can turn your creations into prints by using print-on-demand services or working with a local print shop. This can also be a great way to share your art with a wider audience and potentially generate income from your passion.

6. Are digital and traditional surrealism art prints different?

While the essence of surrealism remains the same, digital and traditional prints may differ in terms of the techniques and materials used. Traditional surrealism art prints typically involve hand-drawn or painted elements, while digital prints are created using image-editing software. Both types of prints can be equally captivating and showcase the diverse range of surrealism art.

Conclusion

Surreal art offers a window into a world where the boundaries of reality and imagination are blurred. The captivating and thought-provoking nature of these prints makes them a popular choice for those looking to add a touch of intrigue and creativity to their spaces. With a wide variety of styles, themes, and artists to choose from, there’s a surreal art print out there that will perfectly complement your taste and décor.

Concetta utilizes her own photography as well as found and digital imagery to create surrealistic collage that make unexpected connections between line, form, space, and color. She explores these relationships and aims to both engage the viewer in the spontaneous process of finding meaning within the visual landscape and arouse a touch of mystery—this synergy she ultimately desires to achieve is the driving force behind why she creates. In her work, she touches upon themes of spirituality, magic and conjuring, the exploration of the human psyche, confession, art as therapy, and the surreal.

Interview with Michelle Concetta

Surrealism Today: What did you want to be when you were growing up?
Michelle Concetta: Growing up!? Still figuring out that bit. My younger years were fraught and I lacked the foundation and security to actualize but I have always been a creator focused on artistic expression. 

ST: What artwork are you most proud of, and why?
MC: The work I haven’t yet completed! It is a sign that I’m on the right path and the dream is alive.

ST: What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
MC: The solicited kind. Because I’m open to it. 

ST: What is one thing they tried to teach you in school that you knew immediately was wrong?
MC: That boys will be boys. 

ST: Who is the one person, dead or alive, that you would like to have dinner with and why?
MC: Lars Von Trier. I want to discuss the cinematic themes he explores.

Surrealism Today: Where is your favorite place?
Michelle Concetta: My dreams. Yes, I am a total escapist.

ST: Who are your biggest influences?
MC: Me, myself, and I. 

ST: What can’t you live without?
MC: The essential things invisible to the eye. Antoine de Saint-Exupery said something to that effect.

ST: What is your dream project?
MC: To create an exhibition of my project, I Only Wanted to Dream. Art, sculpture, interactive installations, and media combine to share a story of grief and trauma with the intent to move beyond victimhood through ritual practice.

Surrealism Today: What’s your favorite artwork?
Michelle Concetta: So many but a mixed-media piece created by Julia Soboleva, comes to mind. I will describe it to you. It features a behind with a hand pulling down black panties. On the left buttock it says “Being” and on the right cheek it says “Nothingness”.  I adore it.

ST: What is currently on your playlist?
MC: I haven’t been listening to much music these days when I am alone. I just returned with my guitar, which has been neglected for far too long.  I am planning on picking it up again and making my own music. 

ST: What are your last three Google searches?
MC: NFTs, Porto art scene, and the definition of bollard, which BTW is a British word for a post. 

ST: What gives you life?
MC: Love & Art.

Surrealism Today: What is your superpower?
Michelle Concetta: Empathy.

ST: What is your Kryptonite?
MC: Seeing people in pain.

ST: If you could visit any artist’s studio, whose would you visit and why?
MC: Natalie Huth, a Berlin collagist. She is an amazing artist living & working in an edgy, progressive city!

ST: What was the last thing you bought?
MC: A patio umbrella to shield my roof  from the scorching summer sun in Arabia.

Surrealism Today: What ideas are you currently pondering or questioning?
Michelle Concetta: Mortality and the question of making sacrifices in the moment for the future. 

ST: What do most people believe that you do not?
MC: That the older you get the harder it is to change. 

ST: What is one thing you believe that most people do not?
MC: That astrology is legit.

ST: What imaginary place would you love to visit?
MC: I visit them every night in my dreams!

ST: What is your favorite thing in the world, and why?
MC: Traveling with my partner and daughter when the stars align—it is a way for us to be together and share a love of exploration. That is, once I get over my initial anxiety and stress in preparation for travel!

ST: If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be, and why?
MC: Xeno and Oaklander, a synth and video duo. They are an experimental electronic band and really cool!  I would love to get out of my comfort zone and create artwork for their videos and/or album covers.

Surrealism Today: What is next for you?
Michelle Concetta: Keep on keeping on.

Website: drimartz.com
Social: Facebook | Instagram

However, Dalí’s oeuvre is not simply limited to oil paintings; throughout his career, he dabbled in a wide variety of eccentric and surprising formats. He made sculptures, cookbooks, wine guides, designed sets for plays and operas, and even collaborated on an animated film with Walt Disney. One of the most unique undertakings of his career though is undoubtedly the infamous Dalí tarot deck, which has been a highly-sought and hard to find collector’s item since its original release in the mid-80s. Well, good news: the Dalí tarot deck is back, and it’s better than ever.

Taschen, the publisher behind a number of high-end hardcover volumes of Dalí’s work, has recently re-released the Dalí tarot deck as a beautiful 78-card box set. Included with the deck itself is an insightful companion book by author and tarot scholar Johannes Fiebig, which delves into Dalí’s life and process while completing his tarot series. The book also provides detailed information on the history of tarot, explanations of what the individual cards mean, and instructions on how to perform your own readings with the deck. The addition of Fiebig’s book elevates the previous version of the deck by making it one of those rare art objects that are not only inspiring to behold, but also functional to use.

Although it’s easy to imagine Dalí deciding to delve into tarot cards on a psychedelic whim, his original impetus for creating the deck is perhaps even stranger than the fact that he made one at all. The deck was commissioned by famed film producer Albert Broccoli as a prop for the classic 1973 James Bond film Live and Let Die, starring Roger Moore and Jane Seymour. In the film, Seymour plays a psychic medium called Solitaire who uses tarot cards to track the legendary MI6 spy James Bond. Legend has it that after Dalí began working on the deck it became clear that his fees would be too high for the production to afford, so Broccoli decided to scrap the idea and the tarot deck prop was cut from the film.

Thankfully, Dalí’s wife Gala encouraged his interest in mysticism and the occult, and he became so enamored with the process of creating the tarot deck that he continued to work on it for more than a decade. 

Many of the cards themselves feature Dalí’s interpretations of classic works of art, such as Vincenzo Camuccini’s The Death of Julius Caesar, which stands in for the Ten of Swords. As a tribute to Gala, he included her likeness in the deck as the figure of the Empress, which is quite an appropriate choice, since the Empress represents the creation of life, romance, and art. Dalí also included himself in the deck as the figure of the Magician, which represents self-confidence and signifies success in upcoming ventures. When he finally completed the tarot deck in 1984, the original limited edition was lauded by tarot readers and Dalí fans alike and quickly sold out, so it seems that his casting of himself as the magician was indeed a prophetic choice… fated by the cards, perhaps?

For a particularly surreal tarot experience, and as a supplement to Fiebig’s guide, try combining the Dalí tarot deck with surrealist filmmaker Alejandro Jodorowsky’s series of instructional tarot YouTube videos, in which he provides in-depth lessons on the history and practice of tarot reading, as well as personalized readings for followers of his channel. Jodorowsky and Dalí were contemporaries, and Dalí was even slated to appear in Jodorowsky’s ill-fated attempt to make a big-budget version of the sci-fi classic Dune. Although there’s no evidence that the two surrealist visionaries ever discussed their mutual interest in tarot, at least not on record, it’s fun to imagine what that conversation would have been like; one has to assume it would have been either extremely profound or completely incomprehensible.

Until the new Taschen edition, which was released this past November, original copies of the deck were extremely hard to come by, selling for upwards of $500 on online auction websites like eBay. The 2019 version of the deck is much more affordable, retailing on Taschen’s website for $60 USD. It makes a perfect gift for any lover of Dalí’s artwork, or just tarot cards in general. So if you want to take a surreal glimpse into your future, or just have some fun with your open-minded, art-loving friends, there’s no better way to do so than with a tarot deck designed by the inimitable Salvador Dalí.

Combining the occult with his own unmistakable sensibility, Dalí’s tarot is a pastiche of old-world art, surrealism, kitsch, Christian iconography and Greek and Roman sculpture.

— openculture.com

Deck of 78 tarot cards with booklet in a box, 7.4 x 13 in., 184 pages

Further Reading:

Melbourne artist Xtian was conceived in East Germany but born in Hungary – that makes him one part Australian and two parts former communist.

He’s been actively collaging for two-plus decades – but is not adverse to making music or short animations. His works can best be described as questions, or “edge of comprehension”. He has exhibited and been published both locally and overseas – most recently by Oyster Moon Press’ Hydrolith 2: Surrealist Research & Investigations.

He is also one half of the now ten-year-old – and still growing! – exquisite corpse project The Infinite Collage (close to 80m long!), and is the creator of the longest-running surreal collage comic series The Micturating Angel.

Xtian is the founder of Melbourne Kollage Ultra, and a contributing member of a number of other collage groups.

Artist Statement

(Before you proceed: the images are an extract from a much larger work.)

“…too arty for comic book lovers, too comic booky for art lovers…”

Do you like comics? So do I. Marvel? Hell no! Okay, we’re gonna be friends then.

This is not an “artist statement” – that will come some other time. This is an introduction to “The Micturating Angel”. A spiel. A sales-pitch. But not an explanation – maybe an excuse? A necessary use of words to explain images that have already said all they can?

Do you like comics? I mean REAL comics, like Charles Burns’ stuff, or Druillet’s or Kago Shintaro or Nihei Tsutomu? Or “The Sandman” series by Neil Gaiman?

Right.

But what about weird stuff by the original Surrealists and the Dadas? Are you familiar with Max Ernst’s collage novels or Gilliam’s animations from Monty Python? What about free jazz, avant-garde music and the writings of William Burroughs? The (good) films of David Lynch? Those books from the 90s put out by V. Vale, the “REsearch” books? Are you familiar with the æsthetics of early industrial music culture or with the visuals of punk underground collages and photocopy art?

Am I laying this on too thick?

You wanted a statement, an introduction, so a schooling you’re gonna get, son.

Right. We’ve established the basics, so meet “The Micturating Angel”, the “Naked Lunch” of comic books! I unashamedly call it a comic, ‘graphic novels’ are for pretentious twats. But its a comic with a fatal flaw: too arty for comic book lovers, too comic booky for art lovers – where do you draw the line?

Why even draw it? (And why even draw a comic in the first place?)

I grew up in Eastern Europe, pre-Fall-of-Communism, so my background is a little different from yours. I read mostly French comics translated into Magyar, I read nonsense literature from Germany and local writers and science books (never became an astronaut though). Emigration was a grand adventure and high school was a ridiculous shock: all the beauty of learning coupled with everyone hammering a round peg into a square whole.

Squares man. They can be so beautiful when they’re not people.

Like the panels of a comic book. But I’m getting ahead of myself.

In high school, I invented surrealist writing – not being aware of its well-established existence. It saved my brain for greater things. Eventually, I met some actual surrealists, some actual poets, and artists and some actual interesting life.

And here we are today – and I’d like you to meet my children – The Micturating Angels (there’s more than one).

Q: What does “micturating” mean?
A: Pissing.
Q: Wut?
A: It’s all you get.

A surreal collage art-comic series seven years in the making (and counting). Somewhere between 2ooo – 3ooo collages in total, including the guest stars, the Secret Chiefs (guys in charge of this here Cosmos). Unraveling the adventures and sanity levels of young girls against their captive, oppressive world (is this a feminist comic? I don’t know…). Young girls against crappy old men and institutions, religious zealots, ignorance vs. science, freaks!

Drawing on source materials ranging from hardware catalogues to religious imagery to medical illustrations, alchemical instructions, furniture assembly instructions, “dirty” comics, mangas, giallos, and cannibalistic self-re-absorptions, the “Necronomicon” (containing not all but most of the sigils of the “Fifty Sacred Names of Marduk”), engineer’s manuals and mathematical formulæ

– do you still like comic books?

Then you’ll love this one! Playing with the conventions of comics to create striking visuals, adventures revealed through non-linear story-telling and complete non-sense dialogue – yes, the words are a red herring – “The Micturating Angel” is a unique comic that will never be understood by anyone – and that makes it an enduring mystery, I hope. (Aren’t questions better than answers? No, they’re not. But Bigfoot is more interesting when you DON’T know that it’s just mountain-lion footprints.)

And there it is. My seven-year Grand Opus, unlike its predecessors (all the other books I’ve made), and a never to be repeated exercise by me. And I WANT you to enjoy it! I really do, I want you to look beyond the confusion, I want you to stop trying to make sense of it and revel in what it actually IS: an ever-shifting series of nightmares laid out like the storyboard of a Hollywood blockbuster that will never be made.

Welcome aboard. I hope you like THIS comic.

– Xtian, 2019

“I LOVE your collage work! It is VERY surreal… your comics are great! … Good luck with your project!”
– Rev. Ivan Stang, Church of the Subgenius

“… a very original comic…”
– Surrealismo Internacional

Books: lulu.com/spotlight/gadzooxtian
Prints: redbubble.com/people/Gadzooxtian
Facebook: facebook.com/The-Micturating-Angel-1609957469288457
Site: gadzooxtian.com

Imagine a world where linear time has lost all relevance. A place where past memories and future visions dance in a familiar present gone awry, this is where nightmares collide with lucid clarity. Touching on topics diverse as ecology, science, architecture, and spirituality.

instagram.com/albanesurrealcollagist/

Artist Statement

Whether creating sculptures or paintings, it is a desire to fall deeper and deeper into my imagination that compels me. A desire to be surprised to discover what I am actually dwelling upon in the often obscured parts of my being. I like to strip away at what arises in my vision until it makes a kind of complete sense although I may not understand it quite yet. I work until the image somehow resonates with my life and speaks of something that I actually know through experience. It must be real in my life to hold any lasting interest for me. I have sometimes thought that I am taking what is ordinary and extraordinary in my life and refocusing it through a lens of symbolic form. That way it can speak to me on all levels at once. I never think too long on a title for I simply call it what it is.

About

Allen Linder has been a nationally exhibiting fine artist for over 30 years.

Please direct all inquiries to lindersculpture@gmail.com

Biography

Thinking In Stone:

Employing the archaic philosophy and methodology of direct carving, Allen Linder sculpts contemporary artifacts—solid works embodying the present, extolling life and preserving the human spirit.

The act of carving and grinding away at stone, wax and bronze is an intuitive practice: ideas and images stimulated by life events emerge from Linder’s subconscious mind. The objects are a complete syntheses of his personal narrative and mythology, directly connected to the awe, beauty, joy and mystery of daily existence, namely the infinite possibility of experience and personhood. There are many narratives present; the work is left open and becomes a sort of spiritual fiction.

Linder “feels his way into form” in search of its center. His ideas play on a single scientific and spiritual metaphor: the need for resistance. The result of his process is hyperbolic sculpture in which content and form unite to distill existential thought using timeless, figurative gesture.

His sculptures explore physicality, the purity of material, and the construction of tactile, illusory awareness through his own psychological and transcendent reality. His work is at once somber and playful, comical and sublime, the posturing symbolic of life.

Links:

https://www.lindersculpture.com
http://www.facebook.com/lindersculpture
https://www.instagram.com/maninfreefall/
https://www.saatchiart.com/lindersculpture

In post-war Japan, a shortage of goods and materials meant the country was flooded with commodities from foreign countries. Okanoue used fragments from Western fashion magazines such as Life, Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue, to create radical compositions combining body parts, animals and inanimate objects in dynamic arrangements. Although the component parts of her collages originated from Western sources, Okanoue herself regarded her technique of image making as deeply rooted in Japanese tradition. She thought of her works as a form of hari-e (‘hari’ meaning pasting and ‘e’ meaning a picture in Japanese), a traditional Japanese technique of making pictures by pasting small pieces of coloured paper onto pasteboard.

It was only in 1952, upon meeting the poet and artist Shuzo Takiguchi, that Okanoue found her own place in art history. Takiguchi was a leading figure of the Surrealist movement in Japan, and introduced Okanoue to the works of the famous Surrealist, Max Ernst, whose style had a decisive influence on her. During the subsequent six years, Okanoue produced over 100 works. Her collages remained idiosyncratic and dreamlike in their juxtaposition of contradictory imagery. In 1953 and 1956, she held solo exhibitions at Takemiya Gallery, Tokyo. However, as with many Japanese women of this era, her marriage in 1957 ended her artistic career.

Okanoue returned to her hometown of Kochi, where she now lives. She is married to the painter Fujino Kazutomo. Her work faded into obscurity and was overlooked for almost 40 years. However, it was rediscovered by the curator of the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography in the mid 1990s, and has since gained recognition for its contribution to the Japanese avant-garde. In 1996 her works was shown in Meguro Museum of Art, and has subsequently been collected by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, and the Museum of Modern Art, New York.

– via huxleyparlour.com/toshiko-okanoue-a-surrealist-in-japan/

Evan Lawrence creates strange and contemporary surreal art. Self-taught, Lawrence uses ambiguous symbolism to explore his transcendent visions. He is inspired by “the delusion of the beautiful things until the weird moments; represented by the emotional feeling of himself”.

Lawrence’s work is part reminiscence and part artifact of his own inner meditations. Reflecting on past experiences and encounters, the work raises questions of identity, meaning, and representation. Lawrence hopes his work ultimately contributes to a better world by acting as a mirror the viewers’ subconscious.

Artist Statement

“I see art personally as the bridge between conscious and subconscious, between what is real and not real. I express and balance my ego with it. Surrealism is like an escape room for me, a self-investigation of identity. I always try to infuse each piece of my work with my feelings, desires, moods, and dreams of the moment, using art as a basic language; transliterate the noetic perceptions into explicit views.”

https://www.instagram.com/vanlawrenc.art/
https://www.facebook.com/vanlawrenc.art

Buy Prints:

Open Edition: INPRNT – Evan Lawrence
Limited Prints: SPASIUM – Evan Lawrence
Signature Edition: CURIOOS – Evan Lawrence