Hand-signed acrylic original artwork by Yama. In the painting, Moo is depicted being held by the neck by a human hand, suggesting ownership and control. While the character appears soft, friendly, and approachable, the imagery carries deeper themes of commodification, exploitation, and the loss of autonomy. The initial concept for ‘Processed’ was inspired by reading Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari, particularly the discussions surrounding humanity's relationship with domesticated animals and the way cattle have become integrated into systems of production and consumption. This led YAMA to consider cows not simply as a living creature, but as a product—an object whose value is often defined by its use rather than its existence. This idea formed the basis of ‘Processed’, the first artwork featuring Moo – YAMA’s first original character. For the artist, Moo is a symbol through which broader themes of consumerism, commodification, power, and societal behaviour can be explored. Through its seemingly simple appearance, the character invites viewers to question how value is assigned within modern culture and what is lost when living beings are reduced to products. The visual contrast is intentional. Moo's rounded features and gentle expression invite empathy from the viewer, while the subject matter encourages reflection on the systems that shape humanity's relationship with animals. This balance between accessibility and discomfort is a recurring characteristic throughout YAMA's work. Painted in greyscale acrylics, ‘Processed’ adopts a restrained and minimal colour palette. The monochromatic tones create a cold and clinical atmosphere, reinforcing the themes of objectification and control. Soft lighting and subtle shadows introduce a sense of stillness and quiet reflection, allowing the emotional weight of the concept to emerge without relying on dramatic imagery.
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