A Long Contemplation of Eternity

The Resurrection of Pop Pete

July 11, 2009 · 4 Comments

When I was at SFU I remember having a debate in class about art. Some people felt that an artist should attempt to be original but others pointed out that no matter what we do whether it is art or writing or anything creative we always have to draw on what came before. Today on Facebook I found a perfect example.

It isn’t often that you get to see culture in the making but after I saw the music video below by Dylan or Arran Shearing, a couple old friendsĀ  from Forest Grove in Burnaby BC, I became curious where he got the name Pop Pete from (referenced in the music video). I went on You Tube and low and behold there is a famous animated movie called American Pop by Ralph Bakshi. One of the main characters is named Pop Pete. Now I haven’t asked Dylan or Arran if they got some of their ideas from the original Pop Pete but after watching the older animation I would guess they did. First watch the animation and then the music video. Cocaine, dancing, partying, women and a rising star. Art influencing art. Art imitating art. Take a few minutes to take it all in.

Sex, drugs and music. Not much seems to change.

Categories: Art · Culture
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4 responses so far ↓

  • Arran Shearing // July 27, 2009 at 5:09 pm | Reply

    Flemming!
    Such a cool video. I cant believe that you found that. it was perfectly complementary to the video i directed. i am glad you picked up on the tones for the video. i wanted it to reflect the music in the video but felt it was more about over excess than glamorization. i was trying to make it appear attractive as a lifestyle at first, but after a moment have the audience member realize there was a lack of substance to their actions. anyways, thrilled you saw it and thanks for the feedback. talk to you soon.

    Arran

  • thekarin // August 3, 2009 at 12:35 am | Reply

    dude, i like Arran’s video. i have been trying to find more information or, as a former vancouverite – to connect; does he have an online/social media presence? i like his style, and see a lot of potential in development.

    peace

  • fblishen // August 5, 2009 at 3:51 am | Reply

    yeah i loved this video to. it just has a lot of great imagery and use of space. i sent him a message on facebook about your interest in his work. hopefully you two can get in contact.

  • Arran // August 5, 2009 at 6:03 am | Reply

    hey Karin,
    I can be reached at arranshearing@hotmail.com

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