Simply Irresistible 1989

Mark Kostabi's painting, "Simply Irresistible," presents us with a complex vision of contemporary anxieties. Made in the latter part of the 20th century, this work reflects the cultural milieu of its time. Kostabi’s figures – a devil, ambiguous winged beings, and abstract shapes suggestive of buildings and dollar signs – allude to themes of desire, temptation, and perhaps a critique of unchecked capitalism. Born in 1960, Kostabi came of age in an era marked by rapid technological advancement and increasing consumerism. His faceless figures could be seen as a commentary on the de-individualizing effects of such a society. To truly understand the art of Kostabi, one must consider not only his artistic techniques but also the prevailing social, economic, and institutional conditions of the time. Only through a comprehensive approach can we fully appreciate the layers of meaning embedded within his work.