"Real" by Slumpy Kev / Kevin Rosa
"Real" by Kevin Rosa, also known as Slumpy Kev, explores the intersection of AI-driven creativity, screenprinting, and cultural critique. Through bold portraits and collectible furniture, the collection reimagines influence and nostalgia with Kev’s signature blend of humor and innovation.
"Real" reinterprets Warhol’s iconic screenprints to challenge the stigma surrounding AI as a tool for artmaking. Combining AI-generated designs, threshold settings, and cartoon-inspired colorways, Kev brings his vision to life through manual screenprinting on canvas and newspaper. This fusion of technology and human touch creates works that provoke both reflection and humor, questioning societal norms and artistic innovation.
Alongside the screenprinted portraits, "Real" showcases Kev’s exploration of functional art through collectible furniture. The “Tom Table”, initially released in its original edition, was later displayed in Pink during the exhibition. It has since expanded with two additional colorways—1975 Grey and Red, now available online. The “B+B Table”, featuring Beavis and Butthead humorously supporting a glass tabletop, merges pop culture with refined craftsmanship, transforming nostalgia into dynamic, functional sculptures.
The collection debuted as a solo exhibition in Los Angeles from November 22–24, 2024, presented by Vodka by Saintwoods. The exhibition featured artist proofs pinned to the walls, offering a raw glimpse into Kev’s creative process. These APs, showcasing variations and unfinished details, will be cut and framed for collectors seeking unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that document the evolution of the series.
Now available on Artsy through Lucky Cat Gallery, "Real" continues to redefine how audiences engage with art, where humor, nostalgia, and critique collide to challenge perceptions of influence and creativity.
Warhol’s Iconic Portraits Reimagined
In "Real" Kev reinterprets Warhol’s iconic portraits by blending AI-driven creativity with the tactile nature of screenprinting. AI provides the foundation, while Kev’s hand-finishing introduces unique variations, creating works that blur the boundary between technology and tradition. "Big Kim", featuring Kim Jong Un in a striking grid of four, exemplifies this approach, merging cultural commentary with bold, vibrant imagery.
Historical Influence in Modern Context
The collection reimagines notable figures like Martin Luther King (“MILK”), John F. Kennedy (“John F. Beast Boy”), and Mark Zuckerberg (“Zuckerjack”), each portrayed smoking an electronic cigarette. These works juxtapose historical icons and contemporary culture, offering a lens through which to explore shifts in identity, influence, and societal norms.
Collectible Furniture as Art
"Real" includes Kev’s innovative foray into functional art with collectible furniture. The "Tom Table (Pink)" was the second colorway displayed by Kev, following the original release of the "Tom Table". This whimsical fiberglass sculpture, inspired by Tom from Tom & Jerry, supports a glass tabletop and blends nostalgic charm with functional design. Now, additional colorways — 1975 Grey and Red — are available exclusively online, expanding this playful and collectible series.
B+B Table
The "B+B Table" brings Beavis and Butthead to life as a dynamic, sculptural centerpiece. Crafted from fiberglass, the animated duo humorously supports a glass tabletop, blending bold design with Kev’s signature flair for reimagining beloved characters.
A Glimpse Into Kev’s Creative Process
At the debut of "Real" in Los Angeles, the artist proofs of four screenprints were displayed unstretched, scattered, and pinned to the wall. These APs offer a raw look into Kev’s experimental process, showcasing variations and unfinished elements as he refined the final works. These works will be cut and framed for sale, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a unique piece of Kev’s artistic journey.
Artist Proofs of “Plank Jong Un”, “MILK”, “John F. Beast Boy”, and “Zuckerjack”.
About SlumpyKev
Kevin Rosa, known as Slumpy Kev, is a New York-based multidisciplinary artist whose work blends humor, nostalgia, and cultural critique. His vibrant creations span painting, functional art, and large-scale installations, earning acclaim from icons like Billie Eilish and J Balvin. Kev’s innovative approach merges conceptual artistry with craftsmanship, redefining how audiences engage with contemporary art.
