The Shadow Band

About this painting

In "The Shadow Band," Diego Tirigall uses striking visual elements to convey his commentary on the phenomenon of "shadowbanning" on social media platforms. The title of the painting makes a play on words, referring to both the "shadow ban" imposed by social media platforms, and the idea of a band of outlaws operating in the shadows. The use of crossed out words such as "follow for follow" and "like for like" in the background of the painting highlights the superficial and transactional nature of interactions on social media, and the way in which these interactions are subject to censorship and control by the platforms themselves.

The painting also makes reference to Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup cans as a symbol of mass culture, which Tirigall reinterprets as a symbol of the superficial and unhealthy content that is often found on social media. The painting serves as a visual commentary on the negative effects of social media on society, and the way it can manipulate and distort our perceptions of reality. The phrases "invisible people" and "social soup" serve as a call to action, urging viewers to consider how social media can manipulate and distort our perceptions of reality, and how it can affect our relationships and connections with others.

Furthermore, the artist also brings attention to the future implications of shadowbanning, not only as a frivolous problem but as a serious one that could lead to a kind of "death in life" in the upcoming metaverse where everyone will be living.

Overall, "The Shadow Band" is a thought-provoking and visually striking work that invites viewers to reflect on the impact of social media on their lives, the control and censorship imposed by the platforms, and the implications it could have on our future. The artist's use of striking visual elements and text effectively convey his commentary on the phenomenon of "shadowbanning" and encourages viewers to question the superficial goals that drive social media interactions, and the effects they may have on our relationships, society and future.