Guillemin Takes His ‘Secret Life of Heroes’ 3D Printed Cult Art To Book Form, Launches Kickstarter Campaign

The artist

Greg “Léon” Guillemin has dreamt up one of those rare and funny, delightful concepts that combined with stunning craftsmanship simply leaves everyone wanting more. He’s also an artist who enjoys working in a variety of mediums which is even more thrilling for the viewer, as we have the opportunity to check out everything from 3D printed sculpture to paintings, prints, and books.

While it’s said that everyone has a bit of the voyeur in them, who could resist the idea of seeing what superheroes do in their off time—in full, widespread color? Leaving you shaking your head in wonder at the creativity, Guillemin offers a journey through the secret lives of superheroes. It might not be your grandmother’s humor, as we check out protectors of the world and beyond, picking their noses and dealing with malodorous armpit stains, but it has an obvious appeal to the twisted sense of humor this generation enjoys so heartily.

Numerous characters are depicted in 3D printed sculptures featured in his new Kickstarter campaign meant to secure funding for publishing his art books, beginning with For Your Eyes Only, which is a celebration of the second anniversary of his ‘Secret Life of Heroes’ series of paintings. Hoping to raise 30K, the Kickstarter campaign runs through March 5, 2015. Guillemin stresses that the funds are needed to publish the first edition of the book, which he envisions as a big, lush art book full of the vibrancy of his paintings and works, scaled at about the size of an LP cover.

Already a successful and fulfilled artist, Guillemin simply began having fun with ‘Secret Life of Heroes’ which has–not surprisingly–developed a cult following which he refers to as a ‘geek art’ series, depicting super heroes in a number of different poses and activities, which (ahem!) they may not have approved of if they had a choice.

As the artwork gained steam, Guillemin also worked with the Nyce Gallery to collaborate on 3D printed sculptures. As the fan base for ‘Secret Life of Heroes’ grew, Guillemin began toying with the idea of a book series, and began putting his favorite images into a compilation, while in the process of creating a previous exhibition.

Guillemin went on to unveil his ‘Pop Icons’ series, creating even more complex characters and subjects, taking the humor—and artwork—to the next level. It’s going to be interesting to see how the book series continues to evolve, along with other mediums in the future.

Those who pledge even at the lowest levels will receive copies of For Your Eyes. As pledges increase, supporters receive signed books, hand-signed posters, canvas prints, and more. As they pledge upward of $2500 supporters will begin to receive Guillemin’s 3D printed sculptures. And for a really cool once-in-a-lifetime experience, if you pledge $9900, you receive a 3D printed sculpture, an original signed book, and dinner out with the artist—as well as a private viewing of his work.

It’s easy to see why Guillemin’s latest work has a variety of venues falling over themselves, clamoring to show off his art—including an up and coming solo showing of his work in Paris at Galerie Lacroix on February 6^th.

Are you thinking about contributing to this Kickstarter campaign? What do you think of Guillemin’s use of 3D printing to convey his artwork? Tell us your thoughts in the ‘Secret Life of Heroes’ forum over at 3DPB.com.

‘Pop Icons’