Monday, June 20, 2016

WHAT IS IKE MADNESS? (10/15/14)

Around Midtown, he’s well known.  He’s been seen at the Atlanta Ferris wheel, in night clubs, and stuck to the side of hipster-esque dumpsters.  His name is IKE, and he’s here to make you smile.

The artist behind IKE is a reclusive street artist who prefers to be called, well---for the time being---IKE MADNESS. 

“It’s a sticker.  IKE.  He was born on the side of a paper cup, originally.  He became a character to highlight happiness,” says the artist.

 In just under two years, IKE has become the unofficial greeter of Midtown, clinging joyfully to old light poles, and just about any other place.  Fans send the artist their own Instagram and Twitter pics including IKE stuck to something or someone.  And IKE travels everywhere.

“The character was born in the streets, he’s had a rough life, maybe…but he keeps on smiling,” says the artist.  “People tell me all that time that seeing the character of IKE made their day better.”

IKE became a part of Free Art Fridays, a program started by local Atlanta artists to get people involved in creating their own art.  “IKE began hiding throughout the city, and soon even I was surprised,” says the artist.

IKE MADNESS and friend MONDO BALDO are collaborating on a project to get IKE into hospitals. “We want IKE to inspire children with cancers.  The character is hairless, he’s smiling, and he’s giving a big wave,” says the artist behind IKE.  “IKE gives us hope; he’s a positive role model!”

To help connect IKE with great causes, contact the artist at ikemadness@gmail.com .
  
---Ray Macon




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