The story comments on the absurdity of corporate life, reflects on the life cycle of the cicada (up to 17 years underground) and suggests the possibility of transformation. The language of Cicada is also simple, yet expressive. The art is deceptively simple, allowing the viewer to project their own imaginings onto the page. Cicada’s green head is the only colour on many pages. Tan’s rich oil paintings depict the bleak office environment in shades of grey. What happens then is simply extraordinary. Upon retirement he climbs Escher-like stairs to the roof of the building. For 17 years he slaves away, living onsite, bullied by co-workers and given no recognition. The eponymous Cicada is an office worker in a cubicle in a grey, featureless building. In Cicada, award-winning artist and author Shaun Tan has produced another stunning masterpiece of minimalist social commentary that will resonate with adults and children alike.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |