Poppy Faun lives and breathes the 1960s and 1970s. It is a passion she communicates in her art, her sense of style and her taste in music. Recognising these decades as a revolution for fashion and rock and roll, Poppy pines for the past and the distinctive aesthetics of these eras.
Describing her art as ‘Retro collage, sucked into the modern world’, much of her work conveys escapism to the past with a relatable narrative on the complexities of modern life.
Poppy signing 'Cool Drive, 1970' at Enter Gallery
Her latest print, ‘Cool Drive, 1970’, available exclusively with Enter Gallery, replicates a moment of bliss and the euphoric feeling of freedom driving towards the sunset leaving troubles behind. A poignant reminder that nature and companionship are more important than ever in the digital world we now live in.
'Cool Drive, 1970' close up
With the retro TV as the acting as the sun, Poppy creates a visual commentary on how we spend our time being influenced by the power of TV and digital products which we carry around gazing at most days instead of the beauty of nature that is around us.
We caught up with Poppy to talk about what inspires her as an artist and her latest release with Enter Gallery...
What is a typical day like for you?
Day dreaming of ideas. Finding inspiration from everything around me.
I start off every day listening to music. It has always been a big part of my life and I get lots of inspiration from hearing the emotion and feeling from music. I feel like music and art are very similar creatively.
I enjoy looking through flea markets for 1960’s and 1970’s magazines. Seeing life as it used to be is really inspirational for me. The grainy detail of the print back 50 years ago and the images capture a moment in life that feels so unlike the modern day we live in today.
"We’ve moved on from these times, but I thrive on giving these images new life."
What do you like most about living in Brighton?
How creative and vibrant it is. It has a wonderful feeling of acceptance no matter who you are. Most of my friends are in the creative scene here, whether it be art, music or fashion and I find a lot of inspiration being surrounded by this.
'Nothing Exists Except Atoms and Empty Space'
How did you get into collage?
I’ve been creating art since I can remember. Both my parents are artists, so it’s been a huge part in my life. Once I figured out how to cut, I would find pictures from my Mum’s magazines and books and began creating my own images. I found it fascinating.
I started collecting old postcards and magazines about 5 years ago and would spend every spare moment cutting them out and experimenting.
Where do you source your imagery from?
All my images are original cut outs from magazines and books from the 60’s and 70’s. I find my material at flea markets and second hand shops.
I love travelling abroad, and finding untouched vintage magazines at markets. When I find an image I like, the ideas start to solidify in my mind. Which I then put into practice in my studio.
What is it about the 60s/70s era that you like so much?
To me it feels like it was the start of a new revolution of life, art, music and fashion that has evolved the world we live in today. Music was made from real musical instruments and fashion was tailored and experimental, showing patterns and details that you wouldn’t find in high street shops today. So much of modern life has been inspired by the past.
Adverts of retro TV’s flying off every page of your weekly magazine and beautiful unedited curvy women, laid flat on paper for the purchase of men only.
We’ve moved on from these times, but I thrive on giving these images new life. The aspect of the past which attracts me is the togetherness in human interests. How people would lock into similar styles and share similar interests in music and art. Whereas today, human interests seem more segregated.
Are there any new mediums/techniques that you are interested in trying?
I’ve actually been playing around with spray paint and collage recently! This has been a little messy but a lot of fun!
One of my biggest dreams is to put on an exhibition of installation works that take you back in time. This would be a big project but I hope to see it through over the next couple of years.
You have collaborated with artists such as Ricard Heeps and Bonnie and Clyde, do you have any more collaborations in the pipeline?
Possibly yes! I’ve just finished an art campaign with Missoma and really bonded with another incredible artist on set. We have been talking ideas so keep your eyes peeled!
Why do you think it's important to have art in the home and what do you think your artwork adds to a space?
Since the current global crisis, we seem to be taking more care to our homes. Having the time to fill the space around us with art that emits happiness and comfort.
Art breathes life into a room and can offer emotions that can lift spirits. It also creates mood and adds personal character to your space which is an integral part our lives.
"Art breathes life into a room and can offer emotions that can lift spirits. It also creates mood and adds personal character to your space which is an integral part our lives."
Tell us about your new print, Cool Drive?
The two cut outs of a man and women from the 70’s gazing into the sunset reflect a moment of bliss far away from any troubles or worries. Letting nature show us the importance of life.
'Cool Drive, 1970'
I wanted the TV to represent the sunset, but also to show the power the digital world has on us.
I’m super excited for this new release! It will be available on the 11th of September exclusively with Enter Gallery.
Listen to our podcast with Poppy Faun
