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The notorious street artist brings his iconic pop playfulness and nostalgic motifs to his inaugural Hong Kong exhibition
Alec Monopoly’s art is instantly recognisable by his use of the character Rich “Uncle” Pennybags, the Monopoly board game’s suited mascot, as a symbol of capitalist greed. Monopoly uses a cartoonish style to comment on real world problems, fundamentally creating a simplified yet somewhat exaggerated message that is justified in its observation of a broken economic and political system.
The street artist rose to fame during a wave of uncertainty following the recession. The collapse and scandals that followed suit served as further inspiration, with Monopoly treating trusted high-profile individuals such as Bernie Madoff as a modern day ‘Wolf of Wall Street’ and the ultimate symbol of financial collapse. Monopoly also uses characters such as Scrooge McDuck and Richie Rich in his work, which largely serves as a reflection of the faults and flaws in current or former economic frameworks.
Ahead of his Hong Kong debut at Above Second gallery this March, Monopoly tells Hong Kong Tatler about his first impressions of Hong Kong, and his view on the rising popularity of street art:
Hong Kong Tatler: Can you tell us about your work and the idea you want to put across?
Alec Monopoly: I originally started painting the Monopoly Man as graffiti during the financial crisis as a commentary on capitalism, but over time the imagery and themes have evolved into a representation of success, ambition and accomplishment.
HKT: Where do you think the value lies within street art?
AM: There is rawness and realness in street art that I think translates well onto canvas for many artists. It's a much more in your face subcultural within the arts, and I think people have gravitated towards that.
HKT: Is street art vandalism?
AM: It's impossible to make a generalisation. Some street art is destructive, while in many other instances street art can elevate and breathe new life into an entire neighborhood or area.
HKT: How do you feel about the rising popularity of street art and the use of graffiti?
AM: I think that it's amazing to see graffiti and street art evolve and grow up. Artists are finding success and being given the means to break past street art and into contemporary art, and get recognition on a global level. I think it's also intriguing for collectors to be able to follow street artists closely, where they have been, what they are doing and what their latest tags are.
Welcome Monops, Alec Monpoly
Image Courtesy of Above Second Gallery
HKT: Do you think there is an intrinsic value in street art compared to other contemporary forms of art? Where do you draw the line between Banksy, Takashi Murakami, and Jeff Koons – all artists whose work can cost millions?
AM: I think that the line is blurred because many successful street artists end up making the transition from street art to contemporary art, focusing more on fabrication, production and canvas works. I also think that younger, new collectors are visually and aesthetically drawn to street art.
HKT: What is your first impression of Hong Kong?
AM: Hong Kong to me is like New York City energy and style with Los Angeles weather – aka perfection.
HKT: Do you feel inspired by the landscape and energy of Hong Kong?
AM: Every time I look down at the emerald green bay or out at the expansive city skyline I feel inspired.
HKT: Have you adapted the content of your work significantly for your Hong Kong exhibit?
AM: You'll have to wait and see for yourself at the exhibit!
Monopoly is one of artnet.com’s Top 10 Searched Artists of 2014; the street artist will take the city as his own with works specifically created for his Hong Kong exhibit, arriving at a politically sensitive time following the much-publicised ‘Umbrella Movement’.
Alec Monopoly at Above Second Gallery
Date: March 13to April 18, 2015
Time: Tuesday to Saturday, 1:00pm to 7:00pm
Venue: Above Second Gallery, 9 First Street, Sai Ying Pun
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