#patterned textiles

Mysterious and Macabre Oil Paintings of People Shrouded in Textiles

Swedish artist Markus Åkesson is perhaps best known for his mysterious and slightly macabre paintings, which feature people shrouded in patterned textiles. The textiles, also designed by Åkesson, are covered in motifs inspired by history, from engravings by Albrecht Durer to paintings by Hans Holbein. As a result, his oil paintings form a dialogue with the past.

In Vivid Reliquaries, Stan Squirewell Layers Anonymous Portraits and Patterned Textiles

Through intimate, mixed-media collages, Stan Squirewell excavates the stories of those who might otherwise be lost in anonymity. The artist gathers images from the Smithsonian’s archives and from friends and family that he then reinterprets with vibrant prints and patterns. Layering unknown pasts with present-day additions, Squirewell explores how everyday traditions and rituals remain through generations.

His new body of work, Robitussin, Hotcombs & Grease, invokes ubiquitous items like the over-the-counter decongestant and hair care.

“Teddy” (2024), artist-printed photos collaged with paint and glitter in a hand-carved shou sugi ban frame, 43 x 35 x 3 inches

Ensemble, 1970

Giorgio di Sant'Angelo