“The Creatix,” an oil painting by Mark Ryden, was created in 2005 and is part of the Lowbrow Art movement. This portrait measures 228 x 152 cm and features the signature whimsical and intricate style of the artist.
The artwork depicts a regal female figure standing in an almost surrealistic landscape filled with various animals and natural elements. The central figure is adorned with an elaborate crown and a richly detailed gown. Intriguingly, the lower part of her dress is split open to reveal a vivid scene featuring an underwater world with a prominent, bearded man resembling Santa Claus and various marine life. This juxtaposition creates a curious and enigmatic narrative, characteristic of Ryden’s distinctive and thought-provoking style. The background illustrates a diverse ecosystem, suggesting themes of creation and imagination. A small beehive, with bees buzzing around, stands in the foreground alongside a miniature astronaut figure, further adding to the surreal and eclectic nature of the piece.