Joey Cienian is doing some of the most unique NBA themed illustration work we have seen. We got an email a couple months back from this self proclaimed “anarchist of aesthetics” asking if we would be interested in sharing some of his illustrations. In his email, Joey mentioned “I often make my characters look like monsters in a sense” so we thought debuting the work on Halloween seemed fitting.
Joey writes “I am 27 year old social studies high school teacher that lives in Minneapolis. I love graphic design, mostly use pen and ink off the computer (ie Gahan Wilson or Ralph Steadman) and did screen printing in college. Creating art like this is a serious hobby for me, and as I’ve been doing an enormous amount of NBA Art lately a friend suggested I kick them your way as we both agree your site is awesome. ” The feeling is mutual and we hope to recruit Joey to help out on some future posts.
A couple of our favorites are below but be sure to check out the rest of Joey’s illustration work on his website.
BIRD MAGIC is amazing!
These are really cool. Every piece of modern hoops art that I see now reminds me of Weinstein’s stuff though, whether that is fair or not.
Hoopism. This is why I like you guys. Keep find awesome talent like Joey to explore and explain the awesomeness of the NBA is unique ways.
Joey- Vlade? Fun Choice. What else have you got?
These are simultaneously revolting and fascinating. The heavy contour lines remind me of corpses riddled with worms. Poor Vlade.
A great addition to Hoopism, particularly as the league sinks further into its grave.
J.R. Rider! J.R. Rider! J.R. Rider!
These are really cool! Very unique style.
scary good is right! i’m lovin’ the line work and the bold colors! where can i buy a print? that “bird magic” would look great in my basement bar/sports room.