The Instagram artist who turns pop divas into 'Pokémon' leaders warms my gaymer heart
This is Ode To..., a weekly column where we share the stuff we're really into in hopes that you'll be really into it, too.
As an avid gaymer, I'm naturally drawn to anything that involves video games or my favorite female pop icons, and seeing these two worlds collide is pretty much my dream (next to a proper sequel to the "Telephone" music video.)
Bruno Alexander, who goes by the alias BreX on Instagram, brings my hopes and dreams to life with his amazing drawings. He takes pop culture icons and singers and turns them into Pokémon gym leaders, giving each a unique look and an assigned Pokémon type.
Alexander's art mimics the game's drawing style exactly, and the Pokémon types he selects for each star complements their personalities perfectly. But can we also talk about the aesthetic? He completely nails exactly how I'd picture each of these pop divas in Pokémon universe. The outfits are right, and so are their designated Pokémon that appear alongside them.
In addition to drawings of pop divas, Alexander does commissions for people who really want to feel their Pokémon trainer fantasy. In these commissions, Alexander draws the person in his style, and pairs them with a Pokémon of their choosing. Makes you wonder: What would I look like as a Pokémon trainer?
Can Niantic please tap Alexander for its next Pokémon game? I'm sure none of us would mind a Gaga cameo.
