About

IKARU is an artistic project created by artist Alfredo Mele and developed by graphic artist Francis (Pachi) Galavis, focusing on the exploration of language, human communication, and our collective dreams. Inspired by the Japanese word Ikaru, which means "Shine" or "Light," this project brings to life a humanoid mechanical character that serves as a guide in our understanding of humanity. It consists of three interdisciplinary phases: Ikaru Art: a collection of visual works; Ikaru Paper: a series of fantasy literature books; and Ikaru Design: a line of products inspired by the character. Each phase offers a unique and enriching experience, aimed at people of all ages. Ikaru seeks to transcend the boundaries of conventional art, inviting the public to dive into a captivating and reflective artistic universe.


It can be collected through original and limited edition artworks and a full line of design products.

 

Ikaru hello world

Ikaru Project

  • Ikaru Art

    Represents the mature and complex evolution of the project's conceptual essence. At its core is a non-human character that instructs us about humanity and the constant changes we experience as human beings, translating them into a powerful visual language. This collection encompasses a variety of works including paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces, all intended to move the viewer. The artist delves into a range of traditional techniques such as graphite, charcoal, sanguine, oil, and acrylic, complemented by digital techniques that enrich and expand the work's evolution. The first exhibition, titled "High Hopes: The Dream of Ikaru", unveils a selection of work created during the project's four-year consolidation phase.

  • Ikaru Paper

    Comprises a series of 12 books of short fantasy stories that narrate from the character's genesis to its adventures around the world. The first book, "Ikaru: The Awakening", allows readers to delve into the purpose of Ikaru's creation, its legacy, as well as the fears and sacrifices of a father for his child. This book was successfully presented at the Miami International Book Fair and is currently available on platforms like Amazon Books and Barnes and Noble. To enrich the stories, a series of three coloring books, agendas, and a line of greeting cards have been developed.

  • Ikaru Design

    Is a phase led by graphic artist Pachi Galavis, where Alfredo Mele's original illustrations are transformed into playful and innocent representations of our aspirations, from childhood to adulthood. Current, historical, folk art, professions, and festivities, among others, are addressed. Under an illustrative approach, the character of Ikaru is presented in a variety of poses, outfits, and costumes in a graphic world called "Ikaru World". This universe materializes through a product line that includes t-shirts, sweatshirts, bags, backpacks, and limited editions of collectibles such as fine art prints and professional skateboards. At this stage of the project, artists from different currents have been invited to collaborate, contributing their unique vision to the Ikaru universe.

Ikaru loves you!