As soccer enthusiasts flock to SoFi Stadium, another form of soccer fervor is captivating audiences just a few miles away. At LACMA’s Resnick Pavilion, artist Lyndon J. Barrois Sr. presents Fútbol Is Lifean exhibition that encapsulates the spirit of the game through one-inch-tall sculptures crafted from gum wrappers.
Barrois’ journey as an artist began in New Orleans, where he started creating tiny drivers for his Hot Wheels cars at the age of 10. Today, his studio in Mid-City is a treasure trove of creativity, filled with tools like glue guns, paint brushes, and a life-sized human skeleton. But the true magic lies in the thousands of gum wrappers he has collected from around the world, transforming them into lifelike sculptures.
The Art of Miniature Sportraits
Barrois’ passion for creating miniature figures has evolved into a unique art form he calls sportraits. These intricate sculptures capture iconic moments from sports history, with a particular focus on soccer. His studio is a testament to his dedication, housing hundreds of tiny gum wrapper figures, including soccer players, boxers, and football players with helmets crafted on pin heads.
Barrois’ journey as an artist began in New Orleans, where he started creating tiny drivers for his Hot Wheels cars at the age of 10. Today, his studio in Mid-City is a treasure trove of creativity, filled with tools like glue guns, paint brushes, and a life-sized human skeleton. But the true magic lies in the thousands of gum wrappers he has collected from around the world, transforming them into lifelike sculptures.
From Childhood Hobby to Fine Art
Barrois’ artistic journey took a significant turn while studying graphic design at Xavier University in New Orleans. One of his professors recognized the potential in his miniature creations, encouraging him to consider them as sculpture. This realization led Barrois to pursue a master’s degree in film and video from CalArts in 1995, where he honed his skills in animation and visual effects.
His work has since graced numerous films, including The Matrix ReloadedNight at the Museumand Terence Malick’s The Tree of Life. Ravi S. Rajan, president of CalArts, praises Barrois’ ability to make his subjects more human and relatable, highlighting the magic of his artistry.
Capturing Soccer History in Miniature
The Fútbol Is Life exhibition at LACMA’s Resnick Pavilion is a testament to Barrois’ mastery. The exhibition features dozens of scenes from soccer history, spanning nearly a century of World Cup matches. Each vignette is a conversation starter, capturing moments of celebration, protest, and historical significance.
One of the most poignant scenes depicts Brazilian footballer Marta Vieira da Silva celebrating a goal during the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Barrois chuckles as he recalls the challenge of capturing Marta’s joy, noting that he can’t even kiss his own foot. The exhibition also includes darker moments, such as the pre-kickoff Nazi salute by the German team in 1938, contrasting it with the team’s human rights advocacy in 2026.
Barrois’ exhibition is more than just a display of artistic skill; it’s a deep dive into the history of soccer. He captures the essence of the game, including the players, personalities, and politics that shape it. The exhibition serves as a reminder of the game’s power to unite and divide, reflecting the broader societal issues it often mirrors.
As visitors marvel at the minuscule scale of Barrois’ work, they are drawn into the stories and histories captured within each vignette. The exhibition makes the subject matter easier to digest, even when dealing with tough topics. Barrois’ ability to transform humble gum wrappers into captivating art is a testament to his creativity and passion for the game.
For those eager to experience this unique blend of art and soccer history, the Fútbol Is Life exhibition is on display at LACMA’s Resnick Pavilion through July 26.
