The Gruesomely Gorgeous Art of Rhiannon Kagoe [Giallo Julian’s Indie

Here on the Spotlight, I like to show off indie-creators from many avenues of the horror genre. Filmmakers, musicians, performers, and — of course — artists. Horror art is one of the most creative mediums out there, and while I’m not the most versed on the craft’s technical side, I do like staring at such artistry for extended periods of time. That’s a kind of expertise, right? Maybe? Just a little?

All this brings us to the star of today’s Spotlight! I’m sure a good bit of y’all are already familiar with her work — especially those in the Resident Evil community — since it’s been becoming immensely popular recently. I’m talking about the beautifully morbid work of Rhiannon Kagoe!

Kagoe rose to the public consciousness with her series of webcomics detailing the further adventures of several Resident Evil: Village characters. Kagoe said of herself:

“I’m a watercolor illustrator and comic artist living in Wales. I love using vibrant paint and ink to make my comics. Last year, I really got into making Resident Evil comics — especially Resident Evil: Village. Like many people, I was invested from the first trailer… fascinated by the characters Capcom had created.”

Who wouldn’t be drawn to such an interesting character? And the other lords weren’t bad either!

“However, also like many people, I felt their time in-game wasn’t long enough. As a result, I wanted to give the characters a second life by seeing how far I can push them in my art and storytelling.”

I think I speak for all of Kagoe’s fans when I say — keep pushing.

If y’all couldn’t tell already, Kagoe has a unique style to her work, one that I absolutely LOVE. It’s just so… weird. And I mean that in a good way. The characters go from delightfully dazzling to grotesquely gonzo at the spill of a blood drop, and it’s that juxtaposition that keeps me hooked. Not to mention, all the vibrant colors that make up the overall look… just like a giant prehistoric shrimp, bright things attract my attention.

On her art, Kagoe said:

“My comics are usually a blend of surreal, unhinged behavior mixed with sentimental moments. I love trying to find the balance between horror and comedy, disgusting and sweet. I feel like this is why a lot of people have resonated with the art.”

Kagoe’s artistic style perfectly blends those elements of humor and the macabre. It brings to mind the Kustom Kulture/Rat Fink artwork of Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, as well as the psychedelically psycho flavors seen in the indie puzzle-action game, Hotline Miami. I have no idea if either of those had any influence on Kagoe’s work, but I stand by my assertion that her stuff would not look out of place in an exhibit next to the two. Comedic, gruesome, beautiful, morbid — all blended together to make a delicious concoction that stays fresh no matter how long it sits out. It’s clear these sentiments are practically universal throughout the community, and I couldn’t be happier about that.

Keep updated on Rhiannon Kagoe’s work by checking out her Facebook here, Instagram here, and Twitter here.

Until next time…

Ciao, friends!

Giallo Julian’s Twitter – Facebook – Letterboxd

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