Petite Planets
Info
- Digital artwork by Olio Imaginarium
- A series of 52 illustrations
- Year: 2024
Artwork In brief
Welcome to “Petite Planets”, a collection of tiny universes encapsulated within orbs, presented in surreal, twisted cutaway views, meticulously sliced for your viewing pleasure. Immerse yourself in a spectrum of ecosystems and geographies, journeying through worlds sculpted by sand, forged in fire, frozen in ice, and flourishing with life. The artwork is part of Surreal 100 -series, celebrating 100 years of surrealism.
”Petite Planets” plays with the concept of scale and the ideas of microcosm and macrocosm. Just as we marvel at the enormity of the cosmos, we can also find a similar sense of wonder if we zoom into the microscopic world. We discover analogous structures repeating at different levels, from galaxies where planets orbit stars to atoms where electrons orbit the nucleus. In a way, the smallest elements can reflect the vastness of the universe, and vice versa. For example, each planet could be thought of as similar to a cell—a self-contained world with its particular set of rules, functioning as part of a larger system.
Each petite planet captures a unique little universe, complete with its own laws and dynamics, including physics, climate, and terrain charasteristics. A range of topographies are twisted and surreal, resembling my earlier work ”Terra Incognita.” Sometimes there are planets within planets, and moons and stars within the inner planets, reinforcing the infinite zoom effect. Prominent features, such as signs of life or notable landmarks, are often magnified in scale, while less significant elements are minimized.
”Petite Planets” encourages viewers to reflect on the similarities between the smallest particles and the grandest celestial bodies, and furthermore, the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. By exploring these intricate microcosms, we are reminded of the delicate balance and harmony that exists at all levels of existence.
