In the heart of Texas, a unique art exhibition is making waves, quite literally. Ken Womack, an artist with a distinctive style, has brought his oversized artworks to the Museum of the Southwest in Midland. This exhibition, titled GIANTis a blend of pop artadvertisingand social commentaryoffering viewers a fresh perspective on everyday objects and cultural obsessions.
The exhibition features a variety of pieces, including an eight-foot rusted Texas vanity plate and a massive Polaroid camera, inviting viewers to interact and reflect on the bigger picture. Womack’s work is not just about size; it’s about the messages behind the art and the cultural commentary that comes with it.
From Advertising to Art
Womack’s journey into art began in the mid-80swhen he graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in art direction and design. His first career stop was in advertisingwhere he honed his skills in brandingconceptual designand copywriting. This background has significantly influenced his artistic style, as he often explores themes of consumerism and brand obsession.
Influenced by artists like WarholRoy Lichtensteinand Jasper JohnsWomack’s work falls into the realm of post-pop art. His pieces are playful and humorous on the surface, but they also carry deeper meanings and social commentary. As Womack puts it, “Almost all of these pieces have some kind of deeper meaning.”
The Giant Exhibition
The GIANT exhibition features a range of Womack’s works, each telling a unique story. The title piece, an eight-foot rusted Texas vanity plate, is a nod to the state’s bigger-than-life reputation. However, it also invites viewers to ponder the cultural significance of such symbols.
One of the most interactive pieces is the Brolaroid 2a massive Polaroid camera that doubles as a sociological experiment. This piece features a hidden video camera and a TV screen where viewers can see themselves in live action. At the Spectrum Art Fairpeople lined up 30 deep to interact with this piece, turning it into a social spectacle.
Womack’s work is deeply rooted in Texas culturebut it also offers a broader commentary on American consumerism. As he explains, “We’re always selling everything is kind of at the heart of what a lot of these pieces do.” His art holds a mirror up to society, asking viewers to question their values and obsessions.
What’s Next for Ken Womack
The GIANT exhibition is Womack’s first solo museum show, featuring works dating back to 2018. The exhibition will run for three months, with new pieces being added in July and August. This extended run gives viewers ample time to explore Womack’s unique perspective on art and culture.
Looking ahead, Womack is exploring opportunities to showcase his work in other museums and high-end galleries. His goal is to continue creating art that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking, inviting viewers to reflect on the world around them.