Yee Wong’s latest work, Forever Lisa, is a prime example of her ability to bridge the gap between the past and present, while also offering a fresh perspective on classic art. Yee’s works have been seen on different media internationally from the social media of contemporary art museum like Saatchi Gallery in London to the Art Voices Magazine cover in New York.
Forever Lisa is a striking piece that combines the iconic image of the Mona Lisa with elements of modern pop culture. The bright and vibrant colors, give a modern new look to this classical painting. Yee’s use of color is particularly effective in creating a sense of vibrancy and energy that is characteristic of modern art.
What really sets Forever Lisa apart, however, is its wit and humor. Yee plays off Marilyn Monroe’s famous smile and Mona Lisa’s smile, creating a clever juxtaposition that is both humorous and thought-provoking. This use of humor is a hallmark of some of Yee’s work, as she often infuses her pieces with a playful sense of irony and satire that engages viewers on multiple levels.
Beyond its humor, Forever Lisa also carries a deeper meaning. By combining two iconic figures from different eras, Yee is able to explore themes of cultural identity and femininity standards. The piece is a commentary on how cultural ideals around beauty and femininity have evolved over time, and how our understanding of these concepts continues to shift and evolve.
Overall, Yee Wong’s Forever Lisa is a prime example of contemporary classicism done right. Yee’s ability to seamlessly blend classic art with modern elements, while also infusing her pieces with humor and meaning, is a testament to her skill as an artist. It is clear that Yee is an artist who is pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a “contemporary classicist”, and we can only wait with anticipation to see what she produces next.
