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The Werkroom, a vibrant art studio nestled in the heart of New York City, has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception in 2015. Originally known as A&V Art, co-founders Andres Isaquita and Vito Mejia embarked on a journey to reimagine the world of art through a lens of inclusivity and irreverence. In a recent interview with Pride.com, The Werkroom revealed the inspiration behind their rebranding and the driving force behind their captivating art.
"Our vision is to reimagine the world of art by creating entertaining, irreverent, and tantalizing artwork that transcends boundaries and welcomes everyone," shares The Werkroom. Their mission is clear: to flip stereotypes, promote acceptance, and celebrate diversity through their unique creations. With a blend of humor, empowerment, and a touch of spice, their art serves as a form of liberation for all who engage with it.
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Pop culture icons like Disney and Harry Potter have long influenced The Werkroom's work. "Many of us grew up influenced by what we saw on television, especially Disney shaping our perceptions of an ideal life," they explain. However, their goal is not merely to replicate these characters but to challenge societal norms and celebrate the diversity of human experiences.
Reflecting on their childhood inspirations, The Werkroom fondly recalls the joy of drawing beloved Disney characters. "Growing up, Disney characters were very important! We liked characters like Ariel from 'The Little Mermaid' and Mickey Mouse—the OG of Disney!" they reminisce.
Their art, characterized by a playful blend of "family-friendly" characters and queer iconography, aims to ignite conversations and shift perspectives. "We hope that by doing so, people will have their perspectives shifted and gain a deeper understanding of diversity and acceptance," they express.
A satisfied fan of The Werkroom shares their purchasesCourtesy The Werkroom
In a world where mainstream culture often clashes with conservative politics, The Werkroom's irreverent and sexy art serves as a vital form of LGBTQ+ representation. "Beyond the political tensions of the moment, at The Werkroom, we focus through our art on creating awareness of the importance of being a community that recognizes, embraces, and respects the differences of its individuals," they assert.
Their tagline, "Let’s have two minutes of fun," encapsulates the spirit of their art – inviting viewers to embark on a tantalizing journey of imagination and excitement. "It's all about igniting excitement and anticipation for the fun and sexy experience ahead," they explain.
The reactions to their art, both from fans and those who may be offended, serve as a testament to its impact. "Surprisingly, we haven't encountered many individuals offended by our art. However, when it does happen, it serves as validation that we're reaching those who perceive our expression as unconventional or unusual," they note.
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At The Pride Store, readers can discover an array of captivating artworks, from a grown-up Peter Pan to a seductive "Daddy" Vader. The Werkroom's latest collection, "Cruising," promises to spark meaningful conversations and keep visitors eagerly awaiting what's next.
In a world where art has the power to challenge norms and celebrate diversity, The Werkroom stands as a beacon of creativity and inclusivity. Through their bold and irreverent creations, they invite us to embrace our differences and celebrate the richness of human expression.
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