We came across some interesting artwork featured in one of our previous posts.  The character’s displayed on this t-shirt triggered an emotional debate in our office.  The question lies in the inspiration of the characters featured; and whether or not it comes from the “right place”?

Do you consider this a “work of art” or “offensive work”?

After the jump are illustrations that some felt this piece referenced (THE ARTWORK AFTER THE JUMP IS NOT CREATED BY THE ARTIST FEATURED ABOVE)

Featured Artwork:

Is the art displayed above “rooted” from the images below???

Of course Nike Sportswear included the hosting country in their collaboration series and involved artist Kronk for the South Africa Team Kit.

Kronk is an emerging designer/illustrator from Cape Town. His work is colorful and whimsical, a collision of rock poster rebelliousness and wry pop culture references. His contributions to the South African team kit are the most intricate of the collection, with an insanely detailed crest embroidery, a bubble lettered font, a kaleidoscopic illustrated pattern (lining the AW77 hoodie), and a cartoonish mascot who seems to be in constant motion. Is he a footballer breaking away on the pitch or a fan blowing a horn in the stands? They are one in the same in Kronk’s mashed-up world.

Just like the other team kits, this one also includes two sneakers and a series of apparel pieces.

Detailed images of the Nike Sportswear x Kronk South Africa Team Kit follow after the jump.