In the world of art, the power of visual storytelling knows no bounds. Last week neo-expressionist artist Æthelstan captivated art lovers and the like with the online version of his short film The Halo is the New Crown as it took Instagram Reels by storm, accumulating an astonishing 400,000 views in 4 days. The move of releasing a short film during Miami Art Basel versus participating in a traditional gallery show is consistent with Æthelstan’s unconventional approach to art which has been displayed in his short 18 month career in the art world. During this period Æthelstan has been covered by The New York Post Page Six multiple times, sent his art to the International Space Station with SpaceX and NASA, sold art to Ice T and created the artistic backgrounds for Latin Grammy Winner Yoteul Romero’s film Patria y Vida The Power of Music documentary.
Neo-expressionism is a movement known for its bold and emotive style, characterized by the artists’ unapologetic use of color, texture, and brushstrokes to evoke raw emotions. Translating this artistic approach into the realm of film is a bold and audacious move, one that directors Travis Wallace and Kenneth Frank flawlessly execute. The online version of The Halo is the New Crown seamlessly combines elements of neo-expressionism with captivating settings, creating a truly immersive experience for viewers.
The success of this short film can be attributed to its ability to evoke a range of emotions within its audience. Each frame is meticulously crafted, with every brushstroke or camera angle carefully chosen to elicit a visceral response. Æthelstan’s talent for capturing the human experience through a unique artistic lens is evident in every scene, drawing viewers into a world filled with passion, vulnerability, and introspection.
The internet has played a pivotal role in the democratization of art, allowing artists to reach a global audience like never before. The fact that The Halo is the New Crown garnered 400,000 views in such a short time speaks volumes about the power of Æthelstan’s work and the growing appreciation for unconventional artistic expressions. This significant milestone not only showcases the artist’s talent but also serves as a testament to the impact and relevance of neo-expressionism in contemporary art.
In 2024 Æthelstan art asset entity, inheritance Art, is planning private screenings of the full short film The Halo is the New Crown for art dealers and buyers in New York, Los Angeles and Miami.
The Halo is the New Crown is:
Directed by Travis Wallace and Kenneth Frank
Produced by Kenneth Frank and Vincent Peters
With appearances by: Anastasia Lewis, Ruby Rose and Æthelstan
Presented by APG
