Michael Andrew Law's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon by Picasso" (2017): A Modern Homage to a Cubist Masterpiece

Hong Kong-based artist Michael Andrew Law is known for his unique blend of traditional and contemporary artistic practices. In 2017, he unveiled a large-scale mixed media painting titled "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon by Picasso," demonstrating a novel reinterpretation of one of the most renowned modern artworks of all time.
A Dazzling Interpretation
Law's rendition of "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," measuring 200x200 cm, is an expressive feast for the eyes. He breathes new life into Picasso's Cubist masterpiece by incorporating glitter, oil, acrylic, and diamond dust, creating a visual spectacle that shimmers and shifts under varying light conditions.

The vibrancy of the glitter and diamond dust contrasts beautifully with the depth of the oil and acrylic, capturing the viewer's attention and inviting them to delve deeper into the artwork. This unique combination of mediums offers an alternative perspective of Picasso's iconic piece, simultaneously paying homage to the original while asserting its own distinct identity.

Graffiti-Style Text: A Nod to Twombly and Schnabel
Law's painting also features colorful, handwritten graffiti-style text, reminiscent of the styles of Cy Twombly and Julian Schnabel. However, these vibrant texts serve far more than a decorative function. They narrate the history of Picasso's original "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," providing a layered context that enriches the viewer's understanding of the painting.

The text, seamlessly integrated into the composition, guides the viewer through the story of the original artwork and the evolution of modern art that it heralded. This striking fusion of art and history deepens the dialogue between the painting and its audience, creating a multi-dimensional viewing experience.

An Homage to Modern Art History
Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon" is a cornerstone of modern art, heralding the advent of Cubism and radically reshaping artistic norms. Law's reinterpretation of this seminal artwork pays tribute to its historical significance while highlighting its enduring impact on the contemporary art world.

By re-contextualizing Picasso's masterpiece within his vibrant, mixed-media aesthetic, Law invites viewers to reconsider the painting's revolutionary nature and its lasting influence on the trajectory of art history.

Conclusion
Michael Andrew Law's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon by Picasso" (2017) is a testament to the artist's ability to blend history, storytelling, and mixed media techniques to create a compelling contemporary artwork. His use of glitter, diamond dust, and graffiti-style text not only offers a unique aesthetic experience but also fosters a deeper engagement with the painting and its historical context. Through this vibrant tribute, Law underscores the enduring relevance of Picasso's original masterpiece and its transformative impact on modern art.