Famous Paintings Reimagined as Fun Illustrations Made With Geometric Shapes

Johannes Vermeer, “Girl With a Pearl Earring,” 1665

Most famous works of art are known for their distinctive style or incredible realism. Tokyo-based artist John Battalgazi is challenging himself to replicate famous paintings like the Mona Lisa using only geometric shapes. As a result, these minimalist designs capture the essence of what makes these pieces so well known.

In this striking style, Vermeer's Girl With a Pearl Earring is composed of mostly circles and ovals and is filled in with a handful of colors. Similarly, Battalgazi translates the ornate patterns of Klimt's The Kiss to a simpler spotted design adorning the softly wavy shapes. “I've been working on a style that infuses various elements such as those seen in abstract, Cubist, and Art Deco illustrations,” Battalgazi tells My Modern Met. “These are styles that appeal to me and influence my art.”

Unlike the inspirations for these pieces—which are made using traditional methods—Battalgazi prefers to render his designs with digital tools, such as the iPad. “Nowadays with digital technology, we are able to mix and match easier so I can arrange work accordingly and experiment more,” he explains. “That allows me to be bold and try interesting color schemes and compositions.”

You can purchase prints via Battalgazi's website, and keep up to date with his latest projects by following the artist on Instagram.