Jason Yarmosky Celebrates Aging Childhood Icons In Painting Series With His Grandparents

Artist Uses Grandparents In Aging Icon Photos

Even the ever-enlightened art world is guilty of ageism, with young models posing for up-and-coming artists just like they do in fashion magazines. That's why we're so thrilled to see Jason Yarmosky taking his brush to the older set, even at the young age of 25.

jason yarmonksy

His series, entitled "Dream of the Soft Look" portrays elderly subjects revisiting their childhood alter-egos. For his models, Yarmosky enlisted his 85-year-old grandparents, dressing them up in outfits traditionally associated with the heady days of youth. The vibrant kid costumes are juxtaposed with a body worn with time, creating an image as jarring as it is joyous.

Yarmosky explained in his artist statement:

"The images in this series can be seen as either humiliating or empowering. The pessimist sees the images through the lens of shame and vulnerability, weighed down by social convention. The optimist sees a sense of liberation, where an adolescent's playfulness and the freedom to dream complement the wisdom of old age."

"Dream of the Soft Look" will show at Bertrand Delacroix Gallery from October 1 until October 31, 2013. In the meantime, check out a preview in the slideshow below. Do these images inspire you to dig through your old toy chest and keep your childhood dreams alive? Let us know your thoughts on these utterly cool grandparents in the comments.

Whatever It Is I'm Against It

Jason Yarmosky

Correction: An earlier edition of this article identified the works as photographs. We regret the error.

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