The Polish-born artist created the new Gone concepts with his childhood in mind and the influence the Superheroes had on his formative years. In those days, comic books served as a refuge and safe space, and the artist wanted to encapsulate those conflicting emotions of reminiscing about that period and the fond memories mingled with a touch of melancholy associated with growing up in his new set of limited editions.

The sombre ambiance of the artworks mirrors the nostalgic essence of time passing and the gradual fading of once vibrant characters into obscurity, symbolising the essence of a childhood idol, reminiscent of those evenings spent immersed in comics under a faint glow, feeling a deep kinship with their triumphs and struggles that paralleled Whatshisname’s younger years. Evoking recollections and nostalgia in collectors, the new artworks serve as a collective journey celebrating the enduring enchantment of childhood heroes.

Holding a special place in Whatshisname heart, during his teenage years the artist found himself captivated by Batman’s sombre demeanour and steadfast dedication to his principles. The dark ambiance of the artwork mirrors his vigilante propelled by personal tragedy and an unyielding quest for righteousness persona, embodying the grittier aspect of heroism. For the first time, the character is depicted as a torso and not in full figure, fostering a deeper sense of intimacy.

The Gone series is a collection of limited-edition artworks representing shadowy blurry silhouettes of the characters from our childhoods, our heroes and idols who are now only faded memories. Yet, we can still remember them as a part of our upbringing, although the memories are faded and too blurry to remember their actual colours and shapes. The characters in the artworks are reaching out to us, hence the extended hand stuck to the face of the canvas, to remind us about their presence. Are they saying “Goodbye” while fading from our memories as we focus our attention elsewhere in adult lives? Or are they saying “We are still here, don’t forget about us…” as they fade into the pure brightness of the limbo of our minds?

This piece is a Flatbed Giclée Limited edition on Innova 315gsm Cold Pressed Paper and it’s also available in a set here. You can also purchase this piece in the Medium edition here.

Find out more about the latest instalment in the Gone collection here or alternatively shop more Whatshisname art here.