The Somewhat Ambitious

The humble Etch-A-Sketch seems to be experiencing somewhat of a Renaissance in this kitsch obsessed digital age. Possibly not a renaissance of European proportions, but the Internet has certainly given new voice to the surely tens of semi-professional Etch-A-Sketch artists scattered throughout their parent’s basements. A sampling:

The Etch-A-Sketchist: Does topical and pop culture derived Etch-A-Sketch portraits. Open to suggestions. I suggest ‘Irreversible’. In the meantime, here’s everybody’s favourite dictator of the last 6 months, Robert Mugabe!

Great Moments in History: Does what it says on the packet. In Etch-A-Sketch form. Recent historical depictions include the Moon landing, the Alamo, and the French student riots of 1968. The quality’s not spectacular, but it is lightly educational. Below we have an interpretation of the dancing mania that afflicted Aachen, Germany in the late 14th century – apparently a case of mass ‘dancing’ (actually upright convulsions) caused by mass ergot poisoning from infected rye. Etch-A-Sketches: you learn something every day.

George Vlositch III – Etched in Time: And just like all great art, Etch-A-Sketching also has its share of pretentious ’superstars’. Meet George Vlositch III, purveyor of high-quality Etch-A-Sketch art pieces. According to the website, each piece takes in the vicinity of 80 hours to complete and has attracted the interest of any number of high-profile celebrities, from Michael Jordan through to Bill Clinton. Prices start at $7500. But, really, can anyone put a price on the gasps of shock and delight from friends and family alike as they see the modified children’s toy you’ve remortgaged your house for?… Yeah, $7500 seems about right.

And finally, my personal favourite, Jeff Sketch(.com): Meet Jeff Gagliardi, Etch-A-Sketch veteran and artist extraordinaire. The website can do most of the speaking for me.

Jeff calls Etch-A-Sketch Art “a quintessential American art form, where the medium truly is the message.”[...]

Jeff has pushed the limits of the Etch-A-Sketch, creating many works that hang vertically (you have to draw it sideways) or have lines that seem not to connect (notice the sketch of the eggs, or the juggler whose pins are disconnected).[...]

Jeff has done many personal appearances at high schools, elementary schools and other events. Contact him for availability. He continues to create new Etch-A-Sketch Artworks and is available for commissioned work as well as personal appearances.”

Sign me up cowboy. But only if you wear your denim shirt and dark tie combo. Ooooooh yeah.

-luke