malicious baboon
Exceptionally, I won’t tell you about the symbolism of the baboon in art throughout the ages. Instead, I’ll simply present to you this mischievous-looking baboon that I stylized in a pop art fashion, somewhat as a wink, making it even more mischievous. It’s more graphic than artistic (although graphic design has an informative nature, which is not the case here). What I mean is that I designed it to be printed on a T-shirt rather than as an artwork, which, nevertheless, doesn’t diminish its value.
Peter Gabriel: ” Shock The Monkey “
PETER GABRIEL
Peter Gabriel, born on February 13, 1950, in Chobham, England, is a British musician, singer, songwriter, and producer, recognized as one of the most innovative and influential artists of his generation. His career spans several decades, marked by bold musical explorations, deep humanitarian commitment, and a cultural influence that transcends the boundaries of rock, world music, and visual art.
Peter Gabriel began his career as the lead singer and co-founder of the progressive rock band Genesis, formed in 1967. With his distinctive voice and flair for theatrical performances, he quickly became the soul of the group. His tenure with Genesis was marked by iconic albums such as Nursery Cryme (1971), Foxtrot (1972), and especially The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway (1974), an ambitious rock opera that explores complex themes and experimental sounds. In 1975, Gabriel left Genesis to pursue a solo career, opening a new creative chapter.
Peter Gabriel’s solo career took off in 1977 with a self-titled album, often referred to as Car due to its cover art. This debut revealed an artist ready to explore new horizons, blending rock, electronic music, and various influences. However, it was with his third solo album, Peter Gabriel III (1980), nicknamed Melt after its cover, that he achieved international success. Songs like “Games Without Frontiers” and “Biko” reflected his political activism and interest in social issues.
The album So (1986) marked the commercial peak of his career, featuring tracks that became classics, such as “Sledgehammer,” “Big Time,” and the poignant “Don’t Give Up,” a duet with Kate Bush. “Sledgehammer” became famous for its innovative music video, using advanced animation techniques, making it one of the most iconic videos of the MTV era. So was acclaimed for its blend of accessible pop and sonic experimentation, solidifying Gabriel as a global music star.
Alongside his musical career, Peter Gabriel has been a pioneer in promoting world music. In 1982, he founded the Real World Records label, dedicated to bringing artists from around the world to a wider audience. He also initiated the WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) festival, which celebrates cultural diversity through music and the arts. His album Passion (1989), the soundtrack for Martin Scorsese’s film The Last Temptation of Christ, is a masterpiece of musical fusion, blending traditional Middle Eastern instruments with modern arrangements.
In addition to his music, Peter Gabriel is a staunch advocate for human rights. He co-founded the organization Witness, which uses video technology to document human rights abuses, and has been involved in numerous international campaigns for peace and justice.
Gabriel continues to produce music and perform live, always driven by a desire for innovation and a passion for social causes. His work, rich and varied, is characterized by a constant quest for new forms of expression and unwavering artistic integrity. Peter Gabriel remains a major figure in contemporary music, a visionary artist who has successfully combined popular success with artistic depth, leaving an indelible mark on global culture.