Freak 2018

"Freak" (2018) by Eckart Hahn (b. 1971) is a hyperrealistic painting that uses the iconic character of Mickey Mouse as a subject. The image depicts a distorted and unsettling version of Mickey, with his head detached from his body and replaced with a chain, rope, and a pair of white gloves. The use of familiar imagery juxtaposed with the disjointed, almost grotesque, portrayal of Mickey creates a sense of unease and challenges the viewer's perception of innocence and nostalgia associated with the beloved cartoon character. Hahn's meticulous detail and the contrasting colors, including the deep blue background and the yellow surface, heighten the surreal and unsettling nature of the work, prompting reflection on the darker aspects of popular culture.