Jeff Bartels, an artist known for his exploration of memory and nostalgia, embarked on a new series titled “Urban Glitch” around the time he turned 50. Reflecting on the clarity and confusion of memories from his past, Bartels decided to delve into the concept of memory distortion through his artwork.
The “Urban Glitch” series currently consists of five paintings, each focusing on a different year from the recent past, ranging from 1979 to 2001. Each painting intricately captures the essence of the era it represents, showcasing the popular culture, trends, and iconic elements of the time.
Bartels’ unique artistic style features imaginary buildings stacked on top of one another, connected by bridges, platforms, and staircases reminiscent of M.C. Escher’s mind-bending architecture. These urban hubs appear frozen in time, as if experiencing a glitch in the space-time continuum, allowing viewers to peer into moments from the past.
In each painting, individuals engage in various activities that define the era, from checking their fridges to walking their dogs and playing arcade games. References to iconic artworks by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Damien Hirst are subtly woven into the scenes, adding layers of cultural significance to the compositions.
To create these detailed and realistic scenes, Bartels utilizes 3D modeling software to develop references before picking up a brush. This meticulous process allows him to construct scenes that could never exist in reality, adding to the surreal and dreamlike quality of his work.
Despite the hundreds of hours required to complete each piece, Bartels remains dedicated to expanding the “Urban Glitch” series with future paintings. The time-consuming nature of the process can be challenging, but Bartels finds inspiration in the exploration of memory and the visual representation of nostalgia.
For more of Jeff Bartels’ work, you can visit his website and follow him on Instagram. Experience the captivating blend of past and present in his “Urban Glitch” series, where time stands still, and memories come to life in vibrant detail.
