Welcome to TTP Jasper Rietman Part 1: Looking at Illustration, Being Happy

Jasper Rietman, TRI/P 97

So you’ve heard the news – Jasper Rietman is now on Thumbtack Press. His illustrations and 3 panel, no words series called “TRI/P” have garnered a bunch of attention and a groundswell of press (including this piece on It’s Nice That) of late. We’re pumped to have him on board. By way of a first intro, we’re going to look a bit deeper into his work today – but stay tuned for a chat and more with Jasper in the coming days.

So. His work stands somewhere in the narrative category; it’s like he’s mastered that blurry line between a “Choose Your Own Adventure” and “Bet You Can’t Eat Just One,” that few artists even begin to approach. Take this one, for example:

Jasper Rietman, Site 2

Easter Island heads and a taxi. Could be an examination of the tourism industry, Western civilization, etc. Could be a frame from a story about Bill Murray’s next film as a cab driver, could be a study of afternoon sunlight. Just depends on your mindset, really. Any way you take it, though, it’s inevitable you start inventing. Something about that parking sign.

And surely after that, you can’t help but want to see more. Maybe other work will provide some background? Maybe this is just the cliffhanger of the season…

Jasper Rietman, Site 4

Okay, this diver is in the deep sea, exploring with his old school gear. There’s some shipwreck debris, kind of feels post-apocalyptic (but looks alright, really), and those giant rock formations. And then there are birds. Once again, Jasper manages to give your brain just enough of something wrong to force you to keep looking at it and keep trying to figure it out.

You can totally see his influence from moody horror movies, short stories, video games, etc. All about those “Aha! …no wait…” moments.

Jasper Rietman, No Title (2)

Jasper’s also a champion at blending more serious interests with a great sense of humor. The idea of combining ancient historical with contemporary business wear (as in No Title 2 above) doesn’t necessarily sound amusing, but, look at that. It’s undeniably funny. And smart. And somehow serene and peaceful. And I can’t stop looking at it.

Here’s to a future full of Jasper Rietman prints for all to stare at and smile and cherish. Find his whole selection of works here, starting at only $19.99.