Born 1991, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The work of Casper Braat is eerily similar to the propaganda of corporate entities. This recognition seeks to evoke the feelings of nostalgia for a comfortable past, but underneath the surface, there is a perverted reality.

Casper explores the tension between the dichotomy of acceptable and unacceptable in our culture. In his project, Justin Bieber, the New Devotion (2016) the intriguing world of the hottest celebrity in the world is exposed; Casper shows an enlightened version of the superstar through an exploration of the machinery that created an icon. His approach to Justin is not as a mere mortal, but as a corporation. 

Icons are a reflection of what we value as a society; in our modern culture we appreciate the ostentatious lifestyles of brands and celebrities more so than traditional social values and morality. The Reflection of Superman (2018) gives a modern depiction of the once civic minded superhero; Superman is caught in a kiss with himself. We are shown that role models are no longer those who are altruistic, but  rather are self gratifying narcissists.. This new hero is selfish, which we should embrace with delight. 

As much as the work may be critical of our current world, it is also a celebration. By elevating mass culture and mass production to divine proportions, we can begin to see the beauty that is driven by our primitive desires. 

The Reflection of Superman

2018

Electroplated Resin with transparent color coating

120 x 60 x 60 cm