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Andy Smetanka
Andy Smetanka is a silhouette artist and stop-motion silhouette-film animator. Recent paper-cutting projects include animation/artwork for The Decemberists (a rock group) and Guy Maddin (a Canadian filmmaker). The artist’s silhouette subject matter is reflected in his own filmmaking endeavors as well. Some of his films are available online, including an exquisite stop-motion animated music video for the band, Le Force, titled Le Wizard, select the link to view the film (new window will open). His artwork is all over the place; Google "Andy Smetanka" and see for yourself.
Below is a selection of his original prints, all of which are available for sale. Inquire via email.
The Great War: Original prints of Smetanka's paper cut-outs capture the fury and fervor of WWI as world leaders clashed, resulting in 20 million military and civilian deaths. These images are presented in a tasteful, bright, and colorful style, as Smetanka’s fans know to expect. In Smetanka's own words: "I'm versatile and draw on many interests and influences, but my creative default setting is a kind of creepy retro-Victorianism."
Caverns of the Mind: Smetanka's Caverns of the Mind series includes works ranging in variety from Finland mythology to American history. Also in the collection are scenes from the stunningly beautiful mountain town, Missoula, Montana. Here, the artist's black cutouts are contrasted vividly by bright, bold colors.
Loteria: Smetanka's Loteria series is a collection of original images, available in 8.25" x 11" prints. This is the artist's new take on a traditional card game that traces back to the 15th century in Italy, where games of this nature were oganized to collect funds for the poor. The first loterias arrived to Mexico in the 18th century from Spain. Loteria is a Spanish game of chance, kind of like a radical Bingo derivative. To start the game, the caller cantor, or singer) randomly selects a card from the deck and announces it to the players by its name, sometimes using traditional riddles, puns, and jokes based on the words instead of reading the card name. The players must figure out that corresponding picture. The riddles are traditional sayings, puns and/or jokes based on the words. Card #1, for example is La Carona, translating to The Crown: The hat of kings. The 54-card set includes El Arbol, The Tree: He that seeks the shelter of a good tree, good shade covers him; and La Luna, The Moon: The lantern of lovers. More than just a game, Loteria is a tradition that involves art, passion, and culture.
