The Flower Casino by night, 2014

Ominous and cryptic phrases, such as ‘what a time you chose to be born in’ feature prominently in these works by Rik Smits (1982, the Netherlands). Painstakingly drawn in pencil, Smits’ imaginary cityscapes show no signs of human life, yet all the trappings of capitalism. Department stores, strip malls and a casino dominate his images like cathedrals to consumerism and the pursuit of wealth. Inspired by New York architecture of the 20s and 30s, Smits’ work takes the relation between religion and capitalism as its theme. In it, Smits draws a parallel with modern day society in which capitalism has assumed the form of a new and potent religion.