A painted woman with an upside down smile on a yellow/orange background, with two white jugs on the background behind her.

Face Oka

Water makes up most of the human body (blue)

€800

Artwork

Edition of 40

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Face Oka parodies the classic pin-up with a tongue-in-cheek take on portraiture.

Oka's fondness for vibrant colour is realised in four fluorescent finishes, each drawing focus to the hourglass figure of a doll-like woman. She’s smiling, but only because her simply-drawn face is upside down – suggesting discomfort with her objectification. A pair of jugs contribute to an assembly of visual puns that gradually reveal themselves upon inspection.

A mocking tableau, Water makes up most of the human body embodies Oka's distinctive sense of humour and exploration of overt sexuality.

Join us on Avant Arte on September 15th to be guided through the production process by printmaker Tom. Face Oka will join the event to answer your questions and discuss the edition.

Behind the scenes

Face Oka standing in front of a wall with his paintings

Face Oka4 collaborationsFace Oka translates the world around him into a distinct, comical style. He borrows figures from adverts and cartoons, giving each a solid black outline. Sometimes people are reduced to graphic shapes and colours, while others are painted more realistically. Regardless, everyone is given Oka’s signature smiley face, either the right or wrong way up. Although his work appears digital, he actually paints with acrylic on canvas. Citing manga as an early influence, his comic book style is reminiscent of Pop artists like Roy Lichtenstein, and later Keith Haring. Graffiti and skate culture have a clear impact on his paintings, like the work of skater-turned-artist Mark Gonzales. In 2018, Oka also released a book of paintings, Dear Larry Clark... , based on the photographers’ documentation of skate culture.

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Reviews from Avant collectors

communication from start to finish has been very informative, quick and helpful. I am happy with the professional way in which the piece has been packaged and shipped, protected to a high degree. Thank you to everyone involved.
Review of Something Forbidden (Blue)
very impressive package: gloves, certificate etc.
Review of Actual Size
Excellent on every level - buying experience, communication, framing and packaging by (which was exceptional) and of course, the actual artwork - it is stunning in real life - really delighted.
Review of Guardian
what an amazing experience from top to bottom. The best communication, print quality and packing. This is my first time purchasing from you and I look forward to my next purchase.
Review of Prismatic Head Composition
incredibly smooth international transaction! The best of the best and look forward to future purchases together
Review of Prismatic Head Composition
Great service overall, makes an easy process for buying and shipping art which is typically difficult and expensive.
Review of Guardian
Excellent service, together with an exceptional work of art!
Review of Descendent - Lucid Dreamer
Beautifully printed piece. Nice touch on the bag and gloves. Thank you for your efficiency and timely updates.
Review of Actual Size

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