manifesto for futurism Dave Mckean

The composition presents a striking juxtaposition of classical antiquity and modern technology, rendered in a dramatic chiaroscuro. A sculpted head, reminiscent of ancient Greek or Roman statuary, dominates the left side of the frame. Its eyes are closed, suggesting introspection or perhaps a state of suspended animation. The face is weathered, marked by age and time, yet retains an air of serene dignity.
Superimposed upon this classical form is a mechanical typewriter, positioned centrally and angled towards the viewer. The keys appear to be pressing into the figure’s chest, creating a visual tension between the organic and the inorganic. A phrase, dalis dilemma, is printed in stark white lettering across the upper portion of the image, seemingly emerging from the figure itself.
The lighting emphasizes the contrast between the shadowed background and the illuminated foreground elements. The head’s surface reflects light unevenly, highlighting its texture and contours while obscuring details in the recesses of the face. This selective illumination contributes to a sense of mystery and psychological depth.
Several subtexts emerge from this arrangement. The typewriter, traditionally associated with communication and creation, appears here as an intrusive force, potentially symbolizing the burden or constraints imposed by artistic expression. The phrase dalis dilemma suggests an internal conflict, perhaps related to the artist’s identity, creative process, or relationship to his audience.
The combination of classical sculpture and modern machinery implies a commentary on the passage of time and the evolving nature of art. It could be interpreted as a meditation on the tension between tradition and innovation, permanence and transience. The closed eyes of the sculpted head might represent a retreat from the pressures of modernity or a search for inspiration within the realm of timeless beauty. Overall, the work conveys a sense of unease and intellectual inquiry, inviting contemplation on the complexities of artistic creation and its place in the modern world.