Amazing ‘Forensic Collages’ of Famous Dutch Paintings

Michael Mapes is a mixed-media collage artist currently living in Croton Falls, New York. He received his BFA and MFA from the University of Chicago and has exhibited his work in solo and group shows around the country.

In a series entitled The Dutch Master collection, Mapes uses a variety of items including: photographic prints, insect pins, pinning foam, gelatin capsules, glass vials, painted canvas, petri dishes, sequins, pill organizer, plastic specimen bags, cotton thread, cotton, cosmetic samples, costume jewellery, human hair, fabric samples, fingerprints, dried botanical specimens and more; to recreate portraits by famous Dutch artists.

On his website, Mapes describes his ‘forensic collages’ as follows:

In a method consistent with earlier work, subjects are examined through a pseudo scientific method specifically working with materials and processes signifying entomological, biological and forensic science. My work suggests the meta-relationship of the subject content, which is to say, it creates a dimensional collage of a painting of a person. In doing so, I consider ways in which to reconstruct the original subject to suggest new meanings.

Along with thousands of dissected photos of the original painting, I add a mix of other contrived materials ranging from hair samples to recent photos to costume jewelry – so called “biographical DNA”.

To see more of Mapes’ fascinating artworks be sure to visit his website. You can also keep up with his latest on Facebook. If you’re in the Montana area, several of Mapes’ works are on display at the Face to Face exhibit at the Yellowstone Art Museum from 20 March 2014 – 24 August 2014.

Michael also has a forthcoming exhibit at Beers Contemporary, London; from 1 August 2014 – 27 September 2015.

[via Wired]