• A Renaissance style epic in oil, created by acclaimed artist Iva Troj and exhibited at Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea from December 8th – 15th
• A replica will also be displayed the world-renowned Carrousel du Louvre in Paris

LONDON, UK, 08 December 2021— To mark the launch of Halo Infinite, the latest installment in the iconic video game franchise, an original epic, large-scale oil painting was unveiled today at Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea. Created by Iva Troj, the Brighton-based 2016 Palm Award Winner and 2019 CAF Artist Of The Year, the 6m x 3m canvas depicts in minute detail a scene inspired by Halo Infinite. The scene shows franchise protagonist, The Master Chief, locked in battle with his alien enemy: the spark of rebellion in the center of the painting ignites scores of battles nearby, as the Chief inspires the marines around him to become heroes.

The work was created in Troj’s Brighton studio using oil on canvas, with details and techniques that Troj is known for in her original works, which typically blend Renaissance and postmodern styles giving a dreamlike feel. Titled the ‘Master Piece”, playing on Halo’s lead character’s name, the piece elevates a decades-old cultural icon from pop culture to high culture, blending Renaissance art with cutting edge entertainment and reminding fans and new audiences alike that videogames are, indeed, works of art.

“I was challenged to create a work in my own style, which typically has a dreamlike and sometimes fantastical quality, but ensuring that it’s instantly recognisable as Halo,” said artist Iva Troj. “I consequently spent a long time immersing myself in Halo’s universe to bring this to life in the manner of an old master but depicting a modern battle, and I hope Halo fans and gamers everywhere enjoy the results – including those smaller Easter eggs that you might not notice at first glance. A rare combination of digital and traditional painting skills was required, as I worked alongside the 343 Industries development team; the painting was completed in just over a month.”

The public can view the painting for free at Saatchi Gallery, as well as at the world-renowned Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, where a smaller replica will be on display until December 19.

Oxford Circus also saw a Halo Infinite themed takeover with a stunning projection mapped onto the Microsoft Experience Centre facade in which a Warthog, the famous transport from the Halo games, is air-lifted to the ground in front of the iconic Halo ring.

“It’s fantastic to see London coming alive as part of the huge global launch for Halo Infinite,” said Joseph Staten, Head of Creative at Halo developer 343 Industries. “We’re so excited to get this game in the hands of our players – both those that have been with us since the beginning as well as newer gamers – all ready to jump into an epic sci-fi universe and experience our most adventure-filled Halo game yet.”

“Xbox and Halo both turned 20 last month and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate that than with such unique activities, giving our fans and the public a chance to see something special,” said James Butcher, Head of Xbox UK & Ireland. “They are a fitting way to conclude what has been a string of successful AAA game releases over recent weeks.” ‘Master Piece’ is available to view now for free at Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea; the public can find the piece in Gallery 4.

Halo Infinite is available now on Xbox Game Pass and can be purchased for £54.99 for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows 10 and on Steam.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Space: Gallery 4, Ground Floor

Dates and Opening Hours:
Open to the public: 8 – 15 December 2021
10am – 6pm, Monday – Sunday (last admission 5.00pm)
Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day

Admission:
Free entry, pre-booking not required

Images:
A selection of images is available for use. Please email press@saatchigallery.com to request these. Images may only be reproduced to illustrate a review or criticism of a work or report as defined by section 30 (i) and (ii) of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.

Social Media:

Instagram, Twitter: @saatchi_gallery

Facebook: @saatchigalleryofficial

School Visits & Community Groups:
With the generous support of all our patrons, for Gallery exhibitions there are opportunities to engage with creative projects and workshops whether that be in-gallery, virtually, in the classroom or at home. education@saatchigallery.com I +44(0)20 7811 3087

Safety Measures:
The health and safety of visitors and staff is paramount. Safety measures for visitors can be found on the Saatchi Gallery website: www.saatchigallery.com/visit/covid-19-compliance