Oh, you haven’t heard? Minimalism is out. Gone are the days of beige-ifying your home decor, and instead, maximalism takes precedence, where everything is fun and unapologetically playful. Or so, many art-lovers would argue.
Dopamine decor takes true form in Dubai-based brand, TUD. TUD forms an intersection of art and interior design, bringing us somewhat unconventional yet undeniably playful designer art objects. Namely, The Ugly Duck.
The Ugly Duck (TUD) is a collectible art toy. It’s purpose, alongside unlocking our inner child’s joy, is to celebrate individuality, new technology, and art. The TUD collection includes objects created in collaboration with celebrities and brands from all over the world, including legendary boxer Mike Tyson, the King of Pop Michael Jackson, the Pantone Color Institute and Los Angeles’ artist Punk Me Tender.
TUD’s latest collaboration – TUD x Jean-Michel Basquiat, does just that. Unveiling two must-have pieces, the “Untitled (Bird)” and “Bird on Money / Untitled (Bone)”, this collaboration is any art enthusiast’s opportunity to own a piece of Basquiat’s inheritance.
Jean-Michel Basquiat is an American artist who became popular in the 1980s as a part of the neo-expressionism movement. His art was often a social commentary, fusing poetry, pattern and canvas to make modern criticism on topics such a wealth and poverty, association and separation, and the inner and outer world.
Now, collaborating with TUD, his legacy will extend to the homes of artists and art-lovers alike, serving as reminders of the power of creativity to challenge conventions and spark change.
Jean-Michel Basquiat shattered stereotypes and blazed a trail as the first black artist to have his paintings displayed in Manhattan galleries. Like the proverbial “ugly duckling,” Jean-Michel Basquiat rose above societal expectations to become a trendsetter and guide for future generations of artists. This collaboration, it appears, is nothing short of a perfect match.
The TUD x Jean-Michel Basquiat “Untitled (Bird)” draws inspiration from one of Basquiat’s recurring motifs, symbolizing freedom, and escape.
The TUD x Jean-Michel Basquiat “Bird on Money / Untitled (Bone)”into themes of wealth, power, and inequality. By juxtaposing two of Basquiat’s iconic works: “Bird on money” and “Untitled (Bone)”, this piece highlights the duality of power and the struggle for identity.
Both pieces are now available in limited quantities on the TUD website.