Punk Isn’t Dead, It’s Swimming: A Look at Ortaire de Coupigny’s Fish with a Mohawk

This artwork by Ortaire de Coupigny titled Punk is not dead! embodies his characteristic humor, cultural commentary, and inventive use of materials. This piece features one of his signature sardine tins, transformed into a vibrant statement on rebellion and individuality. The title pays homage to the enduring spirit of punk culture—its defiance, raw energy, and irreverence—and reflects de Coupigny’s playful approach to art.

The slogan Punk is not dead originated in the late 1970s as a rallying cry for the punk movement, which had begun to face criticism and claims of decline as it became more mainstream. The phrase captured the defiance of punk enthusiasts, asserting that the ethos of rebellion, DIY creativity, and anti-establishment ideals were far from over. Over the decades, the slogan has transcended music, becoming a broader cultural symbol of resilience and individuality.

Inside the sardine tin, a sculpted fish is adorned with a striking mohawk, instantly evoking the bold aesthetics of punk subculture. The fish, an unexpected and humorous protagonist, becomes a symbol of nonconformity, its exaggerated hairstyle contrasting with the industrial, everyday nature of the sardine tin.

Through Punk is not dead!, Ortaire de Coupigny likely challenges viewers to rethink the boundaries of art and culture, showing that even the simplest objects can be infused with the rebellious and enduring ethos of punk. The piece captures the artist’s unique ability to blend wit, craftsmanship, and cultural critique into a compelling visual narrative.

"Punk is not Dead!" by Ortaire de Coupigny.

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