Internationally renowned Canadian illustrator Gary Taxali’s artwork says it all.
Re Message from Canada (above – an illustration for the American magazine The Nation) Taxali says: It’s always an honour to have my work in my favourite publication that’s been angering/exposing the right in America since 1865 (from Instagram, here)
Re the Don’t Trump Canada drawing (above), Greenpeace Canada asked Taxali:
“What does it feel like to be Elbows Up in this chaotic moment? We asked renowned Toronto artist @taxali to create a piece that captures the mixture of feelings that are swirling around in the midst of fear, a renewed sense of identity and a shared unity. This is the artwork that came through that, and his words to go with it.” 👇
Gary Taxali’s response:
“Every day, something new happens that doesn’t feel real . . . we Canadians have been dealing with ideas so strange, so ludicrous, so violating, and beyond international diplomatic decency that threaten our very lives. Are we even safe as a nation? I know people firsthand (both American and Canadian) who have been negatively affected by this trade war, and that number is growing. Will it escalate and to what extent? The questions are never-ending . . .
Go to Gary Taxali’s Instagram here to read the rest of the artist’s thoughts about this artwork.
Gary Taxali is one of today’s preeminent contemporary illustrators, renowned for his retro stylized art in the realm of pop. Based in Toronto, he is also a tenured professor at OCAD University.
Read his extensive credentials on the OCAD site, here.
Gary Taxali’s website, here.
The Art Canada Institute’s 4th of July post on Canadian artists against U.S. annexation here.
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I laughed & shuddered & laughed. Hard to pick a favourite.
Save yourselves. Many of us are with you. Cut any ties and watch us self-destruct from a safe distance. We love you Canada. I’m so sorry.
It is such an uncertain time, for both sides of the border. Thank you for your thoughts.
Yes, it is, but we are the bad guys. The ugly republicans, yes ALL OF THEM, have cheated their way into power. They need to be shown that they don’t matter and neither does america. Once they are gone, we can start over and gain the trust of other countries once again, at least I hope so. Right now there’s nothing but decay in our government, evil, disgusting greed and the need for power. It’s sickening.
Totally understand the need to step away, having done so myself several times. It works, so enjoy the quiet. Best to you.
This last illustration was clever. Hopefully, we can all remain friends. In fact, I just bought quite a few puzzles from Puzzles Canada. Have a nice weekend.
Yes to the friends, no to the trade chaos and the president. Hope you had / are having a lovely Fourth of July.
Yes, it’s nice to have the long weekend. Also, I’ve taken a little time away from WP, not longing in daily. As you mentioned, with trade chaos, our news, the world… just need a mental break from all of it and enjoy the summer. So, if I’m not liking or commenting, that’s why, just taking some time off. I’ve been blogging 10 years, this is the first time, I’ve needed a break. Stay well, I always enjoy your posts. The flatbread one was nice too. Luckily I scrolled back a week or so and saw it. Have a nice weekend.