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Five Contemporary Artists To Follow On Twitter
Artstyle 20 Aug 2014

Five Contemporary Artists To Follow On Twitter

It might seem like artists would be too busy at their canvasses to also balance a strong online presence. Recent years have proven that this is not at all the case. It is now unusual to find a contemporary artist who doesn’t share their work and express themself through social media. As a result, even if you don’t have the time to visit art galleries or museums, you can still enjoy and experience the art world at the tap of a screen. Artsper has selected 5 artists for you to enjoy as you scroll through your feed.

1. Shepard Fairey (Obey)

Shepard Fairey (Obey), Mister President, We Hope, 2011  © nundesign.fr
Shepard Fairey (Obey), Mister President, We Hope, 2011 © nundesign.fr

The epitome of contemporary American street art, Shepard Fairey is best known by his pseudonym OBEY. Fairey was catapulted to fame following the 2008 American presidential election, as he designed the iconic HOPE poster which became emblematic of the campaign. Fairey is always one to watch as he blends traditional and commercial art to cast his unique form of social critique. From xenophobia to gun violence, this artist strives to shed light on the issues facing America today. Always engaged, always critical, this contemporary artist is sure to improve your feed.




2. Takashi Murakami

Takashi Murakami, Flowers on the Island closest to Heaven, 2018 © Fineartmultiple. Famous contemporary artist
Takashi Murakami, Flowers on the Island closest to Heaven, 2018 © Fineartmultiple

Though he needs no introduction, Takashi Murakami has become an icon of contemporary art. With a profound knowledge of Nihonga techniques, Murakami combines cutting edge trends of the day with the typical precision and detail of traditional Japanese arts. Murakami takes his inspiration from sci-fi, manga, kawaii and Japanese painting. Though his cheerful flower creations are perhaps what he is best known for, Murakami has used this wealth of inspiration to create a world of both monstrous and charming figures. From his flowers to his eccentric sculptures… Takashi Murakami will without a doubt brighten up your feed.




3. Massimo Vitali

Massimo Vitali, Viareggio Tits (0009), 1995 © Gadcollection
Massimo Vitali, Viareggio Tits (0009), 1995 © Gadcollection

An Italian photographer born in 1944, Massimo Vitali is principally known for his series on Italian beaches. These images won’t just transport you away from your phone, taking you to the Italian Riviera, they also offer a different perspective. Shot from above and from a distance, Vitali does not want you just to see the undeniable beauty of his beach shots, he wants you to see people from a different perspective… How his figures are seemingly dwarfed both by nature and the crowds that surround them. Whether you want to use his art to escape the daily grind or to gain a different point of view, Vitali’s shots are sure to bring you something new.

4. JR

JR, The Secret of the Great Pyramid, 2019 © JRArt. Contemporary artist in Paris
JR, The Secret of the Great Pyramid, 2019 © JRArt

An artist of many talents, JR works in photography, street art, filmmaking and social engagement. He creates astounding photo-collage pieces, whereby he flyposts large black and white photos in public spaces to create optical illusions and thought provoking works of art. Alongside using art to express himself, as he has done so ever since he started to graffiti at a young age, JR also uses art in an effort to inspire social change. His project Face 2 Face, which was, incidentally, the largest illegally photography project ever made, sought to inspire unity between Israeli and Palestinian people. By pasting portraits of the two groups face to face, JR attempted to highlight their similarities rather than their differences and act as a positive force for change. This “urban artist” is definitely worth the Twitter follow!




5. Damien Hirst

Damien Hirst, H9 - 5 Honesty, 2021. Photo: Prudence Cuming Associates. © Damien Hirst. All rights reserved, DACS 2021. Famous British contemporary artist.
Damien Hirst, H9 – 5 Honesty, 2021. Photo: Prudence Cuming Associates. © Damien Hirst. All rights reserved, DACS 2021

Since his arrival on the art scene in the late 1980s, Damien Hirst has taken the art world by storm. From his beautiful cherry blossom paintings, to his shocking animal specimens, Hirst’s works are a feast for the eyes. This contemporary artist often finds himself intrigued by various themes including death, love, beauty, religion and science which are sure to make you think. Always with something innovating and exciting up his sleeve, Hirst is definitely one to watch.

The art world online?

These artists prove that the art scene is taking steps away from tradition. The cyberspace is just as much of a stage for artistic talent as art fairs and galleries have traditionally been. Perhaps unsurprisingly, social media is one of the best platforms to keep up to date with the latest art trends. Who are the artists which brighten up your feed?




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