Embrace the Whimsical: How Art Transforms Perception and Ignites Joy
FriendsWithYou: A Philosophy of Affection and Resilience in Artistic Expression
In a world often overshadowed by cynicism, the Los Angeles-based artistic collaboration FriendsWithYou, established in 2002 by Samuel Borkson and Arturo “Tury” Sandoval III, stands as a beacon of positivity. Their artistic endeavors transcend conventional boundaries, employing gentle, amiable characters to reinterpret spiritual ideas for an age grappling with nihilistic tendencies and corporate saturation. Their extensive body of work, encompassing sculptures, animated pieces, and robotic performances, consistently radiates themes of happiness, natural beauty, and communal harmony. Borkson asserts that true strength lies in a tender approach, suggesting that something soft and sweet can possess greater influence than aggression, highlighting the potency found in earnestness and the revitalization of a forgotten sense of enchantment.
The Genesis of FriendsWithYou: Cultivating Happiness and Battling Despair
The inception of FriendsWithYou was a spontaneous evolution, driven by a profound empathy for humanity. Borkson observed a growing detachment and somberness in society, recognizing a pressing need for a resurgence of contemporary spirituality. The duo envisioned FriendsWithYou as a conduit to combat sorrow and isolation, leveraging charm and glee as their primary instruments. When they embarked on this journey, the art scene largely shunned anything deemed 'cute,' favoring a 'cool' aesthetic. As residents of Miami, their ambition was to propagate love and kindness in a manner that was both therapeutic and impactful, likening their role to that of superheroes for the world.
The Convergence of Charm and Edge: A Dialogue in Artistic Expression
The initial collaboration between Borkson and Sandoval marked a pivotal moment. Their inaugural venture, a series of plush conceptual artworks designed as contemporary amulets, proved to be a revelation. Following the success of these tactile pieces, they ventured into installations and performance art, confirming the efficacy of their approach. Despite two decades having passed, their creative exploration continues, always seeking new avenues of expression. Their journey into fostering spiritual bonds with the world and themselves represented a defiant, unconventional stance against the traditional gallery framework. They harbored no desire to be confined to a niche within the art world, aspiring instead for their creations to resonate with a global audience.
The Enduring Icon: Little Cloud and Its Message of Optimism
The concept of 'cute' has dramatically evolved, now recognized as a powerful and sought-after attribute. People increasingly embrace affection and sweetness, making it a new form of 'cool.' FriendsWithYou began their work during a period characterized by apathy and a drift towards corporate conformity, believing that humanity's inherent loving nature was being stifled. For them, the pursuit of 'cool' often diverted individuals from this essential characteristic. The character of 'Little Cloud' has become synonymous with FriendsWithYou, embodying their core principles of 'magic, luck, and friendship.' Sandoval explains that animism is central to their practice, with Little Cloud symbolizing unwavering support and embodying their condensed philosophy: optimism, lightness, and the ability to not take oneself too seriously, allowing for fluidity and change.
Global Reach and Psychological Depth: The Impact of 'Little Cloud Sky'
The 'Little Cloud' installations have traveled globally, aiming to inspire a shared sense of wonder and connection. Borkson expresses their interest in psychology, comparative mythology, relational aesthetics, and the fundamental simplicity of the human psyche. They view Little Cloud as a universal mirror, reflecting humanity back to itself. The Seattle Art Museum's presentation of 'Little Cloud Sky' marks a significant milestone, featuring an expansive formation of these figures. This 'army' of clouds creates a sacred geometric pattern in the sky, underscoring the vital message they wish to impart. Despite its apparent simplicity, Little Cloud possesses an remarkable capacity to unite individuals across all ages and linguistic barriers, fostering a collective, harmonious experience.
Beyond Conventional Art: The Unpredictable Path of Artistic Exploration
Beyond their signature soft aesthetic, a profound intellectual curiosity underpins FriendsWithYou's practice. When considering their diverse artistic explorations, the duo acknowledges that the message often guides the choice of medium, but some mediums inherently facilitate emotions that others cannot. They emphasize that their focus isn't on mastering a single craft, but rather on the overarching conceptual framework. This approach grants them the freedom to experiment with new techniques and prioritize the message they aim to convey. While some artists might find comfort and control in specializing, FriendsWithYou intentionally avoids this path, believing it can stifle growth. Their career has been built on a willingness to embrace risk and operate outside conventional artistic norms, ensuring their work remains consistently fresh and unpredictable.
The Power of Play: A Continuous Journey of Invention and Freedom
From an external perspective, FriendsWithYou's work is celebrated for its constant innovation, leaving audiences perpetually curious about their next creation. Borkson finds this continuous evolution equally stimulating, noting their proficiency across various artistic domains, from children's animation to 3D-printed sculptures. Their objective is to expand their reach far beyond the confines of the traditional art world, aspiring to connect with millions. Even when the path ahead isn't entirely clear, they are committed to constructing a 'rainbow bridge,' inviting everyone to join them on this journey. Sandoval likens their artistic partnership to any relationship, where incorporating new modalities and challenges fosters mutual growth and learning. Central to their entire body of work is a profound sense of play, which Borkson explains stems from their childhood experiences, where the freedom to play was a precious commodity. This dedication to play fuels their endless inventiveness, embracing curiosity, the unknown, and the exhilarating 'eureka' moments that lead to unforeseen beautiful creations. They advocate for artists to embody freedom, especially in a world that often attempts to homogenize creative expression. The duo asserts that play is fundamental, and embracing the unknown is a superpower. Sandoval highlights how their personal histories have shaped a worldview that is quirky, joyful, and exuberant, allowing them to reconnect with their inner child. They aim to counteract the societal tendency to suppress this playful mindset, seeing it as a form of theft. Since their earliest works, their core mission has been to provide people with opportunities to engage in play, to encourage uninhibited shouting and exuberance, even in the presence of adults.