Figure 1: A Character picture of a one of Monet's Teachers by Jean-Claud Monet
Figure 2: Clint Eastwood by Chris LeBoeuf
If impressionism were to have a name in the digital age it would be called LeBeoufism. Like any typical artist, Chris LeBeouf is on a continuum of attempting to obtain the unrealistically high standards of artistic perfection. Yet, unlike most artists the rate in which he is improving is astoundingly fast. In other words, art to LeBoeuf is not about merely producing a piece, but ameliorating upon the foundational skills, while still presenting an honest version of himself and his beliefs.
The reason I have compared Chris to Monet, is that he mimics a similar style to the artist. Notice in figure 1 the obtuse proportions of the character. LeBeouf uses this same technique within several of his pieces (especially within figure 2). Also, if you've seen any of Monet's later works, the brush strokes are quite similar to LeBeouf's cyber marks, which can be seen in Figure 3. Although, LeBeouf's strokes are a bit more elongated than Monet's they still produce the same result. That is, they both allow emotion to emit from their pieces.
Figure 3: Self Portrait by Monet.
Figure 4
"Watching the tribes of Earth beat the drums of war on the news. Pretty much resigned to the fact that I belong to the generation that will see the first all-out nuclear war.
I really should see some mountains before it happens."
Although, I'm sure Monet did not have this same mentality when he was painting his scenic wonders, LeBeouf really delivers this nihilistic vision of beauty in Figure 4, which can be compared to Monet's mountains in Figure 5. There is still this emphasis on the importance of preserving the natural beauties of the world.
Figure 5
When speaking with LeBeouf, I enquired about those who influenced his works, and I was surprised that he did not mention Monet. I mean, the parallels between the two are remarkable. However, he did not fail to dispoint and responded with one of the most thought out list of artists and in my opinion, brilliant reasons to why he was inspired by them.
Oh gods, the list could go on all day.
Cy Twombly taught me how a scribble can be heroic.
Hayao Miyazaki taught me that sentiment doesn't have to be cliché or tacky.
Chaim Soutine taught me to see movement in everything and everyone.
Preston Blair taught me that the simplest shapes are often the best solution.
Frank Frazetta, Picasso, and Basquiat taught me to swagger.
Rothko, Chris Ware, and Charles Schulz taught me to be humble.
Norman Rockwell taught me to love people in order to truly see them.
I feel like this response gives merit to a true artist. What I mean by this, is that Chris LeBeouf is willing to learn and grow from those who came before him. This in turn allows him to keep his ego at bay, which is something most artist struggle with. Further more, he has the heart of an impressionist, the ideals of a modernist and the medium of post-modernity all compiled into his works. This is what makes his collections so unique in the ever-pervading globalized art market.
To see more of Chris LeBeouf's works check out his website: http://bobgrey.tumblr.com/archive
