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Mind-blowing pin-up portraits made of gelatin capsules and cosmetic products


New York artist Michael Mapes creates, or sometimes re-creates, portraits of people using what he calls their 'biographical DNA'. He dissects photographs, combines them with other objects, and places the 'specimens' in wooden boxes. The tiny pieces meticulously positioned on the tops of pins are arranged closely next to each other to create an uncanny area between photography and sculpture.

Michael received his BFA and MFA from the University of Illinois and has exhibited his work in solo and group shows around the United States. In a series called Pin Ups, he uses a variety of items including: photographic prints, painted prints, false eyelashes, acrylic finger nails, gelatin capsules, cosmetic applicators, magnifying boxes, clay, insect pins, pinning foam, specimen containers, cotton thread and hair.

To see more of Michael's stunning art pieces, be sure to check out his website. He also has an upcoming exhibit at Art New York; from May 3 through May 8, 2016.







[h/t: Ocula]

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