Travis Chapman isn’t your typical artist. A roofer by day and painter by night, this Spokane-based creative has carved out a niche that blurs the lines between internet humor, pop culture, and timeless art. Whether it’s Baby Yoda chilling under Van Gogh’s Starry Night or Thor smashing through the Berlin Wall, Chapman’s work takes familiar characters and moments and flips them into something completely unexpected.
Art That Breaks (and Makes) the Rules
Chapman’s pieces are like memes with depth—funny at first glance but packed with layers of cleverness and artistry. His inspiration comes from everywhere: B movies, iconic figures, and moments in history that he reimagines through the lens of pop culture. Picture Winnie the Pooh releasing a virus-shaped red balloon, or Seinfeld’s George Costanza lounging in his boxers with Renaissance-level precision.
While some artists lean into traditional subjects, Chapman thrives on mixing the absurd with the familiar. He often takes the grandeur of classical art—think Van Gogh or Renaissance works—and “ruins” them in the best way possible. Like his piece where Van Gogh works at Footlocker holding a pair of Vans, it’s art that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still makes a point.
From Spokane to the World (and Reddit)
What makes Chapman’s journey unique is how he’s built his career on digital platforms. Without formal training or gallery representation, he’s racked up over 70,000 followers on Instagram and regularly hits the front page of Reddit. Banksy and Tommy Lee have shared his work, and his viral pieces are snapped up quickly in his Etsy shop.
The internet has become his gallery, where he connects directly with fans. “There are no gatekeepers,” Chapman says. “You don’t have to wait for someone to accept your art. You can just put it out there.” And put it out there he has—whether it’s Marvel’s Thor tearing through history or Tiger King’s infamous jet ski scene, Chapman’s work is bold, instantly recognizable, and impossible to scroll past.
Humor Meets Meaning
Chapman’s humor isn’t just about the joke—it’s about perspective. Some of his most talked-about pieces go beyond the laughs to tackle deeper themes. His viral painting of a turtle with a straw stuck in its nose is both darkly funny and a commentary on environmental issues. His coronavirus-inspired pieces, like nurses storming Normandy or grocery clerks as angels, blend humor with subtle critiques of modern struggles.
But Chapman doesn’t hit you over the head with a message. “I don’t want to be that obvious,” he says. “I’d rather be clever.” It’s this approach that keeps his work fresh, unpredictable, and universally appealing.
Why Chapman’s Art Matters
At its core, Travis Chapman’s art is about connection. It’s for the meme-lover, the history buff, the movie fanatic, and anyone who enjoys a clever twist on the familiar. His work is approachable, hilarious, and surprisingly poignant, making it perfect for our digital-first world.
Whether you’re a fan of Star Wars, Van Gogh, or just love art that makes you stop and smile, Chapman’s work deserves a spot on your wall—and in your feed.
Explore more of Travis Chapman’s offbeat creations on his website. From iconic movie moments to unexpected historical mashups, his work is as clever as it is unforgettable.
