Angela Dalinger (Artist)
Every now and then, a piece of artwork gets stuck in my head and I cannot let it go. At times, it may be something innocuous, like a cute animal drawing or a pretty fashion photograph, but, more often, it’s a picture that speaks some sort of truth, that reveals a side of human nature that is, so often, ignored. A few years ago, that piece of artwork was the image above, Lethargical Party by today’s contributor, Angela Dalinger. I first saw it on Pinterest and was instantly struck by the raw honesty of the piece. It was the painted version of how I feel at almost every party I attend: awkward and alone. It is also a nod to our expectations of “fun” and how forced social interactions don’t always go the way we planned. I was so taken with the piece that I immediately delved deeper into her work and I’ve been a huge fan ever since!
Based in Germany, Angela combines a naive, art brut style with a mischievous darkness, which is simultaneously unsettling, witty, and genuine. There is nothing formal or proper about her work. In fact, it seems more closely aligned with the world of punk rock, than with any sort of art world preciousness.
Angela's art proudly examines the sadness and awkwardness of every day life. You can see more of her work on her website and on Instagram. Scroll down to read all about her inspirations. Thanks, Angela! ~Erin
Listen
Twist by Flying Horseman This is a record I discovered a few years ago (2012), while I was in Antwerp, Belgium. But I have only started listening to it this year because I had felt depressed by the sound. Totally incomprehensible for me today. I really enjoy listening to the vinyl.
Read
Lately, I am mostly reading horror literature and, especially, a book by Jack Ketchum that blew my mind. I even made a portrait of Sylvia Likens after reading it. (See portrait above.) The book is inspired by her tragic story. It even made me cry and I can't remember the last time a book made me cry or if one ever did. It's definitely not a read for everyone.
Another recommendation: The Immortality by Milan Kundera (If you want to read the words of a wise man.)
Watch
This documentary made me aware of what stupid and selfish human beings we are. It also made me pescatarian again. Well, that sounds a bit weird, but I would die of vitamin deficiency if I didn't eat some fish from time to time. But a whale is not a fish...now I feel I described my own sentence above.
