Local artists are reimagining famous western paintings with a comic twist in a new exhibit.
Wild Goose Creative is set to open “Comics vs. Art” on Saturday.
“The gallery is an opportunity to reimagine classic western paintings. For example, think of Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Last Supper’ but with X-Men,” said Wild Goose Creative executive director Justin Johnston.
“Comics vs. Art” is a month-long exhibition and will host about 60 pieces of art. Most of the pieces featured will be from breakout artists, Johnson said.
At the gallery, guests can expect to see many famous cartoon and comic characters in addition to a large selection of original comic-style characters planted in classical pieces.
“Comics vs. Art” is part of Cartoon Crossroads Columbus, a city-wide comic event Oct. 13-16 .
“Comic art is often seen as low art, not something for the museum. We want to prove that wrong,” said Canada Keck, the gallery curator.
Keck has collaborated with Wild Goose Creative social media director and third-year Ohio State student, Johanna St. John to introduce a new demographic of artists to students. St. John said she hopes to connect students with contemporary forms of art with the goal of helping a younger generation develop an appreciation for more traditional pieces.
“Artists sometimes try to be too progressive with their ideas, but it’s really cool to mix older forms and new forms of art,” she said.
Wild Goose Creative welcomes university students interested in engaging with the local art scene.
Ohio State’s Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum is the largest collection of materials related to cartoons and comics in the world. Naomi Kennedy, a third-year in arts management and Wild Goose Creative intern said OSU students have long worked with Wild Goose Creative to integrate pop culture with classic art.
“As a lover of art or comics, it’ll be a great experience to see classical works reinterpreted into something playful. And if nothing else, it’ll be a chance for an OSU student to become part of the community,” Kennedy said.
In addition to the gallery open on Oct. 8, Cartoon Crossroad Columbus will be hosting a reception at 7 p.m. on Tuesday Wild Goose Creative is located at 2491 Summit St. There is no cost for admission.