159. Ocala Public Art, Common Grounds

Artwork Details

Title: Common Grounds

Medium: Paint

Year: 2020

Artist Statement

The concept for Common Grounds draws on imagery, symbols and color palate relating to First Responders and the City of Ocala. The primary focal point of the artwork is an illustration of two hands engaged in a common greeting known as a “fist bump”, surrounded by representations of the seals associated with First Responders.

I’m honored to have been asked to design and install a mural on the basketball court at the new MLK First Responders Campus. The goal of the artwork is to celebrate the City of Ocala, and its First Responders in a positive and engaging manner. My hope is that the mural will serve as a meeting place that brings people together from all walks of life to find common ground and celebrate diversity in the community.

Artist Bio

DAAS is an American contemporary artist, internationally recognized for his vibrant, colorful, engaging paintings and murals.

Born in Jacksonville, FL, DAAS relocated to Osaka, Japan in 2006, working as an artist for Universal Studios (USJ). The influence of Japanese culture was pivotal in the development of his own unique style which pulls inspiration from origami, reflections of color from the glow of neon signs and a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature.

Returning to the US in 2016, DAAS has been primarily focused on the creation of large-scale mural art installed on substantial structures, such as parking garages, water tanks, and school buildings with a majority of the projects being public art commissions.

DAAS’ mural work often features children interacting with nature and portrays them in moments of joy and elation. He imagines that the imagery of children can serve as a reflection of memories or emotions that are universally relatable to a wide variety of viewers, regardless of age, race or nationality. Additionally, his work, whether it be abstract or representational often incorporates bold shapes and organic forms saturated in vibrant colors meant to influence the emotional reaction of the audience and provide insight into the intention of the work

The opportunity to engage the public in a positive, lasting and meaningful way, serves as a continual source of inspiration and motivation for him.

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