A Celebration of Masks - A 1970s Cinematic Portrait of Hidden Emotions is part of my Olafique series: a series of works inspired by the narrative, carefully stylised photography of Erwin Olaf. For this work, I added a touch of Wes Anderson, with a symmetrical composition, warm retro colours and an almost cinematic setting reminiscent of a scene from an art-house film.
In a colourful 1970s living room, a man and a woman stand with blank, emotionless stares. Their body language is distant, almost uncomfortable. Yet they wear cheerful, hand-painted masks on sticks that smile broadly, as if showing the emotions that the faces behind them cannot show. The man's party hat suggests a birthday, but the emptiness behind their gazes raises questions: is this a party, or a play in which we hide our emotions?
With its cinematic lighting, retro interiors and subtle psychological tension, this work invites the viewer to keep looking longer and make meaning of the scene themselves.
Created by Arjen Roos with support from AI.
My work exists at the intersection of modern Pop Art and Expressionism, with influences from Modernism. Contrast, whether in light, color, or subject, plays a central role in my art. The color red is often prominently featured.
Each piece I create tells a story. I produce..
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