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Hybrid 2.0, the debut solo art show from Brad Novak '89
Wednesday, 8 June 2022
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A number of Old Boys have gone on to become outstanding artists and have their works published around New Zealand. One such artist is Old Boy Brad Novak '89, who goes by the pseudonym New Blood Pop, who is about to embark on his debut solo show beginning Saturday 11 June in Chicago. Titled 'Hybrid 2.0', Brad's show features 12 arch-shaped works in which he explores identity through charismatic animals fusing with humans to create engaging hybrid figures. Many of the central subjects are birds, which have a special place in both the history and modern-day life of Aotearoa. The warrior aspect of the pieces reflects the fight that we all must undertake to break our own self-limiting beliefs. These works are a metaphor, mirroring Brad’s career and life journey. Brad's teenage years were spent diverted towards academia and sports, then after graduating from Auckland Grammar School, Brad went on to become a doctor specialising in Public Health. However, a move to the United Kingdom in the early 2000s and a trip to the Tate Modern Art Gallery unlocked something inside Brad. "I realised that art could be an idea and not just a pretty picture. From that point on, I had no choice but to create." Brad will also be showcasing his work in this year's Art House Tour on Saturday 26 November.  Hybrid Lion 1.1  Hybrid Tui 2.1  Hybrid Tui and Hybrid Huia in Brad's Auckland-based studio  The Hybrid Whio, a 30cm tall bronze statue, one of just eight being produced |