In honor of May the 4th, we are debuting a new screenprint from New Zealand-based artist, Brad Novak! Brad Novak (aka New Blood Pop) is arguably New Zealand's leading urban pop artist. Novak is the first artist in New Zealand's history to exhibit concurrently with both the pop art and street art global elite including Warhol, Haring, Lichtenstein, Obey, and Banksy.
Say Cheese 1.6 (A) by Brad Novak
- Limited edition 8-layer screen-print on white Fabriano paper (300gsm).
- Size 39.4 x 21.5 inches
- Edition of 20 - numbered, titled, and signed by the artist in pencil.
- $500
Some notes from Brad about the new edition:
My latest edition ‘Say Cheese 1.6 (A)’ is an example of me indulging a passion that began in childhood. Those who know me well understand I’m a geek before all else. Growing up in a family with 4 boys in the ’80s sealed my fate. I’d hate to think of how many times we watched the original Star Wars trilogy back then. Best of all was episode 5 (the middle movie), the greatest sequel of all time, and my favorite movie ever… The Empire Strikes Back. It’s darker than the first one, there’s a snow planet, Yoda seems crazy at first, the sexual tension between Leia and Han, Luke steps up, Han gets frozen in carbonite, Boba Fett is introduced, the ‘goodies’ lose!!!
The scene depicted in this painting comes just as Luke prematurely leaves Yoda’s training to try to rescue his friends. Not long after this first lightsaber duel Darth Vader tells Luke he is his father. The bombshell of all Bombshells.
I was too young to see Empire at the movies but can only imagine the shock from fans. Was it true or was Vader lying to Luke? Back then people had to wait 3 years for the next movie to find out! I’ve captured this moment of suspense as Luke confronts Vader for the first time.
A major theme in my work for over a decade has been my self-titled ‘Digital Dilemma’. I’m sure the move to a more technological future is hurting us in many ways. None more so than social media (ironic as I utilize the platform in my art career) - selfies, seeking others' approval, disconnecting from what really matters (what we think of ourselves).
Here these two Stormtroopers can’t believe their luck. Vader is gonna kick this little Rebel Punk’s butt… “Quick take a pic for our Instagram!”