Joseph Bachanes

The goal of Joseph’s work  is to merge the physical, metaphysical, and transcendence of form. Through drawing and sculpture, he explores the human body immersed and fragmented in landscapes inspired by biomechanical systems. On this path of combining realism with fantasy and entering the realm of the surreal, emphasis has been placed on sensitively rendering the forms of the body to highlight the contrast between horror and the macabre with beauty and mystery. His artistic affinities lie primarily with H.R. Giger and Yoshitaka Amano. Other important influences to him are Samwise Didier, Yoji Shinkawa, and Ruan Jia.

Calling upon such timeless themes as the hero’s journey, his work takes inspiration from equally timeless classics like The Wizard of Oz, Alice in Wonderland, Jim Henson’s Labyrinth and The Neverending Story. There is also no shortage of inspiration from the realm of video games, drawing upon such beloved titles as the Greek and Roman mythology of Rygar, and the biomechanical universe of Metroid. He is drawn to these themes because of the power they have to evoke strong emotions from deep within ourselves, giving us the ability to confront, question, and embrace these complex feelings while experiencing the ultimate metamorphosis of becoming your best, complete self. We are all on the path of the hero’s journey whether we realize it or not, and one of the greatest obstacles, afterall, can be ourselves.

In his early development, Joseph began his art journey by creating art of existing characters from various media, as well as his own original designs. The joy of creating flourished within as he was able to share this joy with others. Between then and now, his connection with art dimmed for a time. In recent years, the need to take his art more seriously bubbled to the surface. It was at this juncture that he searched within to reconnect with the creativity that had been stuffed down for so long, and made the decision to return to school. The ability to lose oneself in the infinity of creative space is a gift. One he won't make the mistake of letting go of again.