This Ain't Kansas Print

the story

As dissimilar as they may appear on the surface, rural Midwestern farmers and rural Asian farmers have some things in common. Namely, a deep respect for tradition.

This is a valuable trait that can provide a sense of stability and help pass on hard-earned wisdom to future generations. But I believe we must also have an openness to new things. Not so that we will abandon our ideals, but so that we can experience a much richer life.

It's like the difference between experiencing life in black and white versus full color, like in the 1939 version of the Wizard of Oz.

I made this piece as a reminder that sometimes we need to break free from what’s expected. Mashups of east and west, urban and rural, liberal and conservative, old and new are what makes life more interesting.

Doing things the way you’ve always done them, and surrounding yourself with the same people, places, and opinions is a pretty good way to live life in grayscale.

How does one opt for a more technicolor life? Simple: Take a break from your traditions.

Read a magazine or watch a documentary on something you know nothing about. Order food you've never tasted before. Take a new form of transportation to work for a week. Have a conversation with someone who holds an opposite point of view (without trying to convince them they're wrong).

There is magic in the mashup.

product details

This colorful artwork by Jason Kotecki comes in a variety of sizes.

20"x20" Original Painting. SOLD.