– Marlon West, a Disney animator from University City, Missouri, employs comic book-style artwork.
– He uses this artistic medium to tackle the reality of the ongoing global pandemic, COVID-19, and the racial tension due to the killing of Black Americans.
– The talented artist transitions between animation and Black comic book arts as a coping mechanism.
– Artwork inspired by 2020’s major events like global pandemic and Black rights protests.
Missouri’s Marlon West: Animating Through The Tides
Born and brought up in University City, Missouri, Marlon West made his mark as an animator with Disney. These days Marlon has found a new platform for his creativity; a comic book style medium to manifest his feelings and perspectives about contemporary events.
Art in the Time of Pandemic
Initially, COVID-19 restrictions threatened to stifle creatives like Marlon, but he decided to adapt to the changing conditions. He moved away from the world of animating legends like ‘The Lion King,’ switched gears, and focused on a different art form. This transition was not an escape but a way to depict the grim reality of the global health crisis that everyone was grappling with.
Shining Light on Racial Injustice
Taking his creativity further, Marlon used digital canvas to bring the issue of racial tension in America to light. A difficult narrative, made more personal as he was visualizing the violence inflicted on fellow Black Americans. With each stroke, he recorded the horrors and fatal encounters that kick-started nationwide protests.
His digital comic-style artwork reflects major events that shook the year 2020. His thoughtful sketches walk through the labyrinth of the pandemic, lockdowns, and race protests, offering a visual narrative of the experiences shared by many worldwide.
The Breezy Take
Missourian Marlon West’s artistic pivot into comic-style artwork reveals his versatility and adaptability. His work provides a unique perspective on some of the most pressing issues of recent times. Balancing between fantasy animations for Disney and the grim reality that has gripped the world, his art encapsulates the struggles and pains of 2020. West’s move is a testament to the power of art to provoke thought, generate meaningful dialogue, and serve as a coping mechanism amidst turbulence.
Original article: https://news.stlpublicradio.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2023-08-25/ink-tributes-pay-homage-to-victims-of-police-brutality-civil-rights-heroes