Select Artwork from Aaron Michael Rabin, Circa 2001-2003 This drawing of a town by Aaron shows a deep appreciation for the shape and form of windows. The post modern representation of a sun shows an abstract symmetry that is unique to the piece. The subtle slant of buildings and contours toward the right demonstrates a resilience that each structure maintains against the pressures of everyday life. The clock tower guarding the edge of town suggests that the inhabitants are serious hardworking people who may be concerned about the large looming figure on the outskirts of town. As a result, the doors are clearly shut and locked, with many windows to monitor the situation as it evolves minute by minute. Perhaps the large dark looking figure is parental in nature, suggested by the inscription "DAD" in the top left quadrant of the piece. This naval piece is set on the turbulent seas of a forgotten time. Aaron brings out the tension in this pirate battle by juxtaposing two tall ships against an errant attacker. The cannon balls glide through the air, piercing the full sails of the swarthy force. In the heat of battle, the combatants peer out of the multitude of portholes to aim their loud fiery cannons. As the fight flares up, a casualty is thrown clear of the rightmost boat and plunges to his watery grave. This early self portrait of Aaron portrays a happy youth exploring the open confines of suburbia. The flaring sun casts forth its rays, drawing the flower toward it's intoxicating gaze. The bold gliding seagull is seen mirrored on the inquisitive face, perhaps hinting at the desire to fly into the heavens himself. As the young boy stands on the edge of an Eden, his fingers are spread wide, catching the cool summer air that dances past. The imagery suggests the joys of youthful ignorance and bliss as the confining house of rules and traditions recedes into the distance. This mixed media piece exemplifies the powerful simplicity that Aaron brings to many of his creations. The colorful orbs set atop a conical stand contrast with the dismal and foreboding backdrop. The ebony specks contribute a bittersweet ornateness that counterbalances the jubilant hues of each scoop. The piece as a whole projects a minimalist irony that subliminally strikes at the heart of both greed and sloth. Meet the Artist Aaron Michael Rabin was born in Seattle, Washington in 1997. His artwork has been greatly influenced by Disney's Aladin, Disney's Pirates of the Carribean, and Nickelodeon's Fairly Odd Parents. He studied marker and crayon under his mother, but drew inspiration from his younger sister as well. Early events in his childhood with an assortment of castle siege toys and pirate-based toys led to his many warfare themes that dominate his later work. Earlier pieces reflect simpler themes as exemplified by The Wiggles and Blue's Clues. back to home page