"Whiplash" by Nathan Ota

Born and raised in Los Angeles, Nathan Ota's early days were spent as a member of the legendary graffiti crew, West Coast Artists. Now shown in galleries worldwide and in major publications, Ota's art reflects his early influences: cartoons, comic books, and graffiti. Never attracted to classical art, Ota "turned to what really spoke to me with artists such as Robert Williams, Olivia, Pushead, and Raymond Pettibon."

Ota's surrealist take on "Whiplash" captures the song's adrenaline rush and conflict through muted colors and movement.

Photo: Exhibit A Gallery / Sammi Doll