WHILE I WAS PLAYING with themes in search of a new look for Rather Rare Records over the past few weeks, I posted a page with a note of apology and explanation for all to see. To make the post eye-catching, I found this surreally cryptic painting by Michael Sowa and used it as the page’s featured image.
I really like the painting and miss seeing it here, so I’m posting it again right here on this otherwise pointless page that has nothing to do with collecting rather rare records.
But it is such a fun painting!
This is “Frohe Ostern” (“Happy Easter”), the painting that I used for the apology-post.
Who is Michael Sowa?
Michael Sowa is a known German painter and illustrator.
Sowa is a master of the subtle and funny art, skillful old-brilliantly explained, besides, is composed surreally cryptic, and is thought through till the smallest detail.
Perfection on the smallest space.
Simply brilliantly.
The four lines above lifted from the homepage of Michael Sowa’s website.
A book of his paintings titled Sowa’s Ark – An Enchanted Bestiary was published in 1996. He has also illustrated several children’s books and albums.
In the 2001 French film Amélie (Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain, or The Fabulous Destiny of Amélie Poulain), Sowa’s paintings on the heroine’s walls come to life. The poster above is for the US release of the movie.
A Gallery Composed Surreally Cryptic
The Master’s Voice
Autobahn Pig
Biker
Illustration from the book Little King December
The Great Spring Tide of 1858
Four in a Boat