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Denver artist Monti Korbelle is exploring the exciting relationship between sound and visual art in his new project, “Postbellum.” Rather than creating a typical music video, this work pairs heavy bass music with unique vocals and offers a fascinating glimpse of a painting's evolution.
At the heart of “Postbellum” is a 30 x 24-inch canvas that Korbelle documents in a photo series. This series traces the painting's journey from its first sketches to the final, stunning piece. The process is anything but simple! Layers are added, painted over, and even sanded down, allowing the artwork to change and grow. Each step tells a part of the story, revealing the experimentation and patience that go into creating the final work.
The visuals' connection to the music is especially striking. “Postbellum” blends dubstep beats with hip-hop-inspired vocals, all performed by Korbelle himself. This blend creates a unique sound that enhances the artwork and invites viewers to experience the creativity in a whole new way. To bring his vision to life, Korbelle uses a variety of materials, including chalk pastels, watercolor, acrylic paint, and even sandpaper. Each material plays a role in developing the canvas, and together they document the exciting process of layering and revealing the artwork over time.
What makes “Postbellum” truly special is Korbelle's focus on the creative journey rather than a simple story. By merging visual art and music, he highlights the shared spirit of experimentation and transformation in both fields. As the canvas evolves, it becomes a visual partner to the music, offering listeners a deeper way to connect with the work.