Different cultures around the world have historically used paintings as ways to document the daily lives and habits of people in that culture. From medieval Europe to Ancient Egypt, art has historically been a reliable source of information about how different cultures lived and moved through life.
Now, art is still used to document and preserve culture. Sometimes, contemporary paintings will take on a more interpretive or symbolic approach, blending traditional elements with modern techniques to express the complexities of cultural identity in today's world. These works serve not only as a bridge to the past but also as a means of exploring the ongoing evolution of cultural narratives. Artists often infuse their creations with collective experiences, using their canvases to celebrate and reimagine communities and their heritage.
Here are some artists featured on WXLLSPACE celebrating diverse cultures all around the world.
Madeline Mackenzie from Los Angeles
Madeline Mackenzie draws elements from stories about the American West, such as Bless Me, Ultima. Her work respects and reveres families who have worked to preserve nature and stories, especially those in her home city Albuquerque. With experimental colors and simple forms, her murals resemble folk art and stories that inspired her.
Learn more about Madeline Mackenzie: https://explore.wxllspace.com/artist/madeline-mackenzie
June from Toronto
Jieun Kim, or June, was born in Korea but is currently based in Toronto. Alongside being a tattoo artist, activist, and painter, Kim uses spray paint to create murals that draw inspiration from her home country, Korea. Her art features symbols of Korea such as tigers and dragons, and through her visual aesthetics, she brings her audience into a dialogue about what “home” really is.
Learn more about June: https://explore.wxllspace.com/artist/june
Trasheer from Mexico City
Trasheer is a graffiti artist and muralist who experiments with different stylings from pop art, surrealism, and science fiction. He focuses on pre-Hispanic Mexican culture, esotericism, magic, and urban legends. His work has been featured all around the world, and he has developed work for brands such as Nike and Adidas.
Learn more about Trasheer: https://explore.wxllspace.com/artist/trasheer
Killamari from Atlanta
Killamari’s art combines Khmer culture with wacky monsters, street art, and tasty foods. He creates vibrant murals with bright colors and distinct characters, evoking high energy and diverse patterns in his work. As a freelance illustrator, Killamari has worked with several high-level clients, including Marvel Entertainment and Mountain Dew. Learn more about Killamari: https://explore.wxllspace.com/artist/killamari
Shahul Hameed from Dubai
Shahul Hameed discovered his passion for art when he was growing up in Kerala, India. Hameed is a multitalented artist who loves capturing different subjects such as music or the culture in Dubai. Hoping to show the international art world in Dubai, Hameed shows the diversity and beauty of the country.
Learn more about Shahul Hameed: https://explore.wxllspace.com/artist/shahul-hameed
These talented artists continue a long-held tradition in art to amplify, preserve, and celebrate important cultures in the world. Through their vibrant murals, evocative imagery, and deeply personal themes, they offer fresh perspectives on the traditions, stories, and symbols that shape their identities and communities.
To find more artists creating expressions of the diverse worlds they live in, visit WXLLSPACE today!