Murals at Bangkok Station: Bridging Visionary Art and Thai Buddhist Tradition
Murals at Bangkok Station: Bridging Visionary Art and Thai Buddhist Tradition
I’m thrilled to share my recent mural project at Bangkok Station Thai Restaurant in Nyack, New York. This unique commission came to life thanks to owner Mike Metzger’s passion for art and his love of vibrant, visionary creations. Mike’s restaurant already features a collection of stunning concert posters from renowned artists like Emek, setting a tone of eclectic and thoughtful design that welcomes all who enter.
Mike discovered my work through a friend who frequents Bangkok Station and felt my style would perfectly complement the restaurant’s existing aesthetic. His vision? To bring Thai Buddhist themes to life on the opposing ends of the dining area, blending tradition with a contemporary edge that echoes the artistry found in his concert poster collection.
Designing the Murals
To honor the Thai Buddhist inspiration, I delved into the rich symbolism of this artistic tradition. I created two murals, each reflecting distinct but complementary aspects of Thai Buddhist culture:
– The Green Tara: One mural features the compassionate and serene Green Tara, a goddess symbolizing protection and enlightenment. Her tranquil yet powerful presence brings a sense of calm and inspiration to the space.
– The Wrathful Deity: On the opposite wall, a dynamic and intense wrathful deity bursts forth with vibrant colors, embodying transformation and the energy of overcoming obstacles.
These designs were carefully crafted to resonate with the spiritual depth of traditional Thai art while also embracing the boldness and modernity of concert poster aesthetics.
The Process
This project was a collaborative effort with Mike, whose passion for art and attention to detail made this a truly rewarding experience. As I worked, I sought to create murals that would seamlessly tie together the restaurant’s existing mix of traditional Thai decor and visionary art, making the space feel both cohesive and dynamic.
A Visit Worth Making
If you’re in Nyack, I encourage you to visit Bangkok Station to experience the murals in person. Enjoy incredible Thai cuisine while soaking in the vibrant artistry of this special space.
A big thank you to Mike Metzger for trusting me to bring this vision to life, and to Marc Snyder who introduced him to my work. This project was a beautiful fusion of cultural tradition, modern artistry, and community connections—a true joy to create!
Twisted Vegas Visions: Eggy’s Grateful Dead Sphere After Parties Poster Art
“We can’t stop here, this is Bat Country.” – Hunter S. Thompson
I am thrilled to share my latest creation: the poster art for Eggy’s two-night Grateful Dead Sphere after parties at Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas. This piece was an exciting challenge, blending iconic elements and artistic influences into a unique visual experience.
The artwork features a twisted Vegas panorama, reminiscent of the wild scenes from “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” by Hunter S. Thompson. At the center, you’ll find a striking figure inspired by Salvador Dalí’s “Birth of a New Man”. In a playful nod to the band, the new man emerges from within the Sphere in Las Vegas with various musical instruments, symbolizing rebirth and transformation.
This piece was meticulously crafted using silk screen 6-color inks on Cotton Candy stock by French Paper Company, ensuring vibrant colors and a high-quality finish. I’m incredibly proud of how it turned out and excited to share it with all of you.
Thank you to everyone who supported this project and Eggy’s unforgettable shows. Your enthusiasm and appreciation for my art mean the world to me.
Stay tuned for more exciting updates and new projects coming soon!
Warm regards,
Brian Zickafose
Painting :: One Fine Night – All Infinite
One Fine Night :: All Infinite
Mischtechnik – Oil on Wood Panel
Brian Christopher Zickafoose
Step into the ethereal beauty of “One Fine Night :: All Infinite,” a captivating painting brought to life through the intricate Mischtechnik technique in 2022.
This artwork invites you to a world where the sublime and the infinite converge in a dance of colors and textures. The artist’s skillful use of Mischtechnik, a method combining various painting techniques, including oil, unveils a rich tapestry of emotions and atmospheres. Each brushstroke on the panel contributes to the creation of a scene that transcends time and space, capturing the essence of one fine night in an all-encompassing, infinite embrace.
Allow the interplay of light, shadow, and color to transport you into a realm where imagination knows no bounds. “One Fine Night :: All Infinite” is not merely a painting; it is a portal to a moment frozen in time, yet eternally alive with possibility and beauty. Embrace the magic of this masterpiece, a testament to the artist’s mastery and the boundless potential of artistic expression.
Harmonious Collaborations: A Glimpse into Our Artistic Journey with 5 Points Music Sanctuary
We are thrilled to share the exciting collaborations we’ve had the honor of crafting alongside our friends at 5 Points Music Sanctuary in Roanoke, Virginia. The synergy between music and art has always been a powerful force, and these gig posters stand as vibrant testaments to that creative intersection.
In 2021-2023, we embarked on a journey of artistic expression, working hand in hand with 5 Points to encapsulate the essence of their fantastic events in visual form. Each gig poster is a unique piece, carefully designed to mirror the energy, spirit, and creativity that pulse through the sanctuary’s vibrant music scene.
These artworks not only serve as promotional material but also as vibrant snapshots of the dynamic performances and eclectic events hosted by 5 Points Music Sanctuary. From bold color palettes to intricate details, each poster captures the unique character of the musicians and the atmosphere they bring to the stage.
As the partnership continues to evolve, we invite you to stay tuned for more extraordinary collaborations with 5 Points. The creative journey is ongoing, and we are excited to explore new artistic horizons, translating the magic of live music into visually stunning creations.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, art lover, or someone who appreciates the fusion of both, these gig posters are a celebration of the harmonious relationship between sound and vision. Join us in reliving the spirit of each event through these carefully crafted visual stories.
Keep an eye out for updates and announcements as we dive into more exciting collaborations with 5 Points Music Sanctuary. The stage is set, the canvas awaits, and the journey continues to unfold. Let the rhythm of creativity and collaboration play on!
Painting :: It Was a Weird Night at Dragon’s Tooth
Embark on a visual odyssey with “It Was a Weird Night at Dragon’s Tooth,” a mesmerizing 36″ x 24″ x 2″ Oil Mischtechnik Painting on Panel, expertly crafted by Brian Christopher Zickafoose and completed in 2022.
This artwork takes you on a mercurial journey inspired by the Appalachian Trail, specifically the enigmatic Dragon’s Tooth Overlook near Roanoke, Virginia. Brian’s creative prowess brings to life a vivid portrayal of the surreal experiences encountered during nocturnal adventures in this mystical setting.
Drawing from profound spiritual encounters along the Appalachian Trail, “It Was a Weird Night at Dragon’s Tooth” is a testament to the artist’s intention—to capture the essence of self-exploration and the profound connection with the Creative Source inherent in the ineffable beauty of nature. Each brushstroke and color palette intricately weaves a narrative that invites viewers to delve into the complexities of the human spirit, mirroring the awe-inspiring intricacies of the natural world.
This captivating piece not only serves as a visual feast but also as a conduit for contemplation on the profound connection between the self and the sublime beauty of nature. Own a piece of this Appalachian-inspired masterpiece, a radiant expression of Brian Zickafoose’s artistic vision and spiritual exploration.
A Visual Symphony: Brian C. Zickafoose’s Artistic Journey with Mountain Music Festival
Since 2018, visionary artist Brian C. Zickafoose has been weaving his artistic magic into the fabric of the Mountain Music Festival at ACE Adventure Resort on the New River Gorge in West Virginia. This annual collaboration has become a cherished tradition, adding a vibrant visual dimension to the festival’s already dynamic atmosphere.
Harmony of Creativity and Nature
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the New River Gorge, the Mountain Music Festival is a celebration of music, adventure, and the great outdoors. Brian’s collaboration with the festival began as an exploration of the intersection between creativity and nature, reflecting the festival’s core values.
A Tapestry of Festival Art
Each year, Brian unveils a new masterpiece, a visual symphony that captures the spirit and energy of the festival. From vibrant landscapes to psychedelic explorations, his festival art has become an integral part of the Mountain Music Festival experience. The canvas, like the festival itself, transforms into a living, breathing entity that resonates with the rhythm of the music and the pulse of the surroundings.
Immersive Live Art Experience
One of the highlights of this collaboration is the live art experience that Brian brings to the festival grounds. Festival-goers have the unique opportunity to witness the creation of a masterpiece in real-time. The festival becomes a canvas, and Brian, the conductor of colors, orchestrates a visual spectacle that unfolds alongside the live musical performances.
Community and Connection
The collaboration goes beyond the canvas. Brian’s art serves as a focal point for festival-goers, creating a sense of community and connection. It becomes a shared experience, a visual storytelling that encapsulates the memories, music, and magic of the Mountain Music Festival.
The Evolution Continues
As the collaboration enters its fifth year, the evolution of Brian’s festival art continues. Each stroke of the brush, each burst of color, adds a new layer to the ongoing story. It’s a testament to the symbiotic relationship between art and music, nature and creativity.
Join the Visual Journey
Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, Brian C. Zickafoose’s festival art adds an extra layer of wonder to the Mountain Music Festival. Join us on this visual journey, where the New River Gorge becomes a canvas, and the spirit of the festival is etched into every brushstroke.
Stay tuned for updates and glimpses into the artistic process as we embark on another year of creativity, collaboration, and celebration at the Mountain Music Festival with Brian C. Zickafoose. The stage is set, the canvas awaits, and the journey continues to unfold. Let the artistry play on!