Of Art and Football

With the flags raised in Brazil and about half the people you know either celebrating or wallowing in despair, the last thing you’d think about is art. From personal experience, the Beautiful Game is called the Beautiful Game for a reason: it is an art, and it influences art.

Sabah’s very own Red Hong Yi is at it again, creating masterpieces without using a paintbrush. This time round it is World Cup themed- with the likeness of Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Neymar painted with nothing other than- you'd never guess- a football. There is a video and more info here, of this fancy footwork.

It is an undisputed fact that the actual movement of the players across the pitch is an art in itself. But innovative methods of using the human body to become art always intrigued me- on more than one grand adventure across the oceans, I have encountered very, very still men with pigeons perched upon their arms coated in silver paint, deceivingly posed as statues. Here is one woman who became the World Cup.

For those of a more minimalist inclination, Tony Miotto’s interpretation of the various teams’ crests might tickle your fancy and end up being one of your many methods of showing allegiance to your favourite team. Or second favourite, in light of the inevitable (and outright surprising, in certain cases) knockouts in the group stage.  

(I have a certain degree of inclination towards the boys in sky blue and white. You have to admit, the colour combination is aesthetically pleasing.)

Digitally Inspired Media created eight posters in honour of the World Cup- the geometrical contours are so many levels of gorgeous. 

("As part of our tribute to these heroes, we have created a series of exclusive posters for the star contenders of the World Cup, inspired the titles of blockbuster films that justify the dedicated traits of each player better than the respective movies itself. To create these posters, we incorporated a cutting-edge crystal design, symbolizing the presence of a singular, strong inner core with an outer surface that is capable of transcending boundaries and achieve the impossible, much like our heroes who give everything they have for the spirit of the most beautiful game ever played.")

Amongst all the glitz and glamour, there are always the less-than-favourable aspects of the event that plague the host nation, acknowledged by everyone, yet left unspoken by many. Street art lining the urban landscape of Brazilian cities are a means of protest and outcry. Satirical and bold, the images focus on the harsh reality as opposed to the almost illusionary ideals of glory. However among the negativity, there are also more positive portrayals of the World Cup sandwiched between the unglamorous. More at the link.

Another interpretation of the political tensions present surrounding the event is the following sketch by French artist Pez/Pierre Yves Riveau. The intricate detail is somewhat symbolic of the many complications society has been entangled in. Such lovely form and a clear message that leaves an impact. 

On a lighter note, everybody loves stickers. Especially during World Cup season: the one-every-four-year hunt for the rare sticker of your favourite. Gotta stick ‘em all. One couple requipped the good ol' crayon and felt tip to share their interpretations of the stars. Ranging from a strong caricature likeness to deeply challenging abstractness, you will be entertained, hopefully even inspired. Proceed with caution, especially if laughter is not acceptable in the environment you are in. 

Quite unfortunately I have not encountered any in Kota Kinabalu (or have I just not been out of the house?) and I feel a bit left out. Perhaps I should walk in this couple’s footsteps and create my own Panini stickers. All for a bit of a creative exercise, and most importantly for a bit of a laugh.

Last but not least are the photographs taken during the World Cup- which I might leave that for a separate post, as if I were to share my favourite photos I would be here all day. I hope that this might leave some food for thought, or perhaps convinces you to watch the World Cup: it is worth it if you enjoy sports and a good atmosphere (besides the pain of sleepless nights which is a regrettable ailment Malaysians suffer from due to the dreaded existence of timezones). Who knows, you might be similarly inspired to work on creative pursuits. After all, this game is not just about 22 men and a ball. 

- F. C.