Maggie Evans 
Toon Joosen, a talented artist, is renowned for his unique approach to art, blending different elements from the past into a cohesive and often humorous whole. His method involves the ingenious combination of two contrasting images, often sourced from his vast collection of magazines and newspapers dating back to the 1960s. This practice has become a hallmark of his style, allowing him to create art that is both ironic and amusing.
Joosen’s process is a careful and thoughtful one. He meticulously goes through his extensive archive, searching for pairs of images that, when combined, either enhance or contrast each other in a way that creates a new and intriguing narrative. His choices are not random; they are selected to bring out an unexpected harmony or dissonance that adds depth and character to his creations.
Once he has selected his images, Joosen then applies his artistic skills to merge them. He often employs techniques like distorted perspectives and disproportionate scaling to craft his collages. These methods are not just for aesthetic appeal; they are a deliberate choice to accentuate the absurdity or the whimsy in his compositions. This can be seen in some of his more notable works, where people are depicted lounging on oversized lilypads, a boy nonchalantly spraying whipped cream on a sandy beach, or a fisherman caught in the act of hooking a metaphorical representation of love rather than fish.
These collages are more than just visual treats; they are a window into Joosen’s artistic mind, showcasing his sharp wit and a keen eye for the quirky and the unconventional. His works are a commentary, a playful nudge at the norms and expectations of society, art, and perhaps life itself.
In addition to creating these unique pieces, Joosen has also found a way to share his art with a broader audience. He offers his collages for sale in various forms, such as prints and cards on Etsy. This allows art lovers and collectors to own a piece of his quirky and imaginative world. Furthermore, for those interested in keeping up with his latest projects and creations, Joosen maintains an active presence on social media platforms like Instagram. There, he regularly posts updates, offering a glimpse into his current works and the creative process behind them.
Toon Joosen’s work stands as a testament to the power of creativity and imagination in art. His ability to take mundane, everyday items from decades past and transform them into something new, something that challenges and amuses, is a rare talent. It is this unique blend of nostalgia, humor, and artistic skill that makes his work not just visually appealing, but also thought-provoking and memorable.
Toon Joosen’s art, encapsulating a blend of humor, irony, and nostalgia, not only entertains but also invites reflection, making him a notable figure in the contemporary art scene.
