About
âLeviathan', the latest works by artist/designer Michael Mantis, use symbolism and metaphor to explore complex themes. The Leviathan acts as a metaphor for creativity. The creative drive is a haunting prospect, a need that is embedded deep within; an innate desire to make sense of the world by the act of creation. Like the mythical unattainable beast that always travels just ahead, the fulfilment of creativity can seem perpetually out of reach. This drive has the ability to completely overcome; a dance of beauty and vibrancy, but also a drive that treads a fine line with destruction, always edging you on to pick fights it may not be possible to win.
The artist was inspired by Herman Melville's classic novel Moby Dick, which follows the tortured fervour of the protagonist, Captain Ahab, whose driving ambition is to conquer his mythical foe Moby Dick; a ferocious, enigmatic white sperm whale. This is the perfect metaphor for the creative spirit that needs to build, make, play, to satisfy this deeply entrenched thirst. You will never satisfy this drive⦠nor will you ever capture the Leviathan.
âLeviathan' is the new art exhibition by Michael Mantis that will be presented by the Department of Coffee and Social Affairs, 14-16 Leather Lane, London EC1N 7SU, from 16th August 2012.
http://www.michaelmantis.blogspot.co.uk
About The Artist
Born and raised in Australia, Michael studied graphic design at the Queensland College of Art. After graduating, he designed and illustrated record covers, posters and assorted pop paraphernalia for The Ramones, Tartan films, Resin Dogs, and legendary New York graffiti-pioneer-turned-musician Blade, to name a few. In 2005, Michael moved to London, co-founding infamous street art duo Goldtooth. Living and breathing London's East End vibrancy, Goldtooth hosted three successful solo art shows, including appearances at the Flash art fair in Milan, and at The Event art festival in Birmingham alongside art collective !WOWWOW!. Goldtooth also collaborated with art collective Rinzen and artist Stuart Semple. Michael now works as a solo artist and designer.
