Street Art

                                                   Drawing XXL—112 cm/110 cm—Amarie

For a long time, I think since the end of the sixties, I have been fascinated by street art or urban art. These artists had no choice but to perform on the walls of big cities, buildings, trains, bridges, and other public spaces to make themselves known. From my perspective as a spectator and a sketch artist, I was delighted to see ugly dark walls in remote corners or in degraded urban spaces adorned with colors and ingenious drawings, sometimes featuring captivating perspectives or trompe-l'œil effects. Here and there, the artist conveyed their message through the careful execution of graffiti. Their courage lay in confronting the authorities, as their actions were considered vandalism. No wonder they acted anonymously or under a pseudonym. Fortunately, over the decades, street art has evolved to become a recognized and respected form of art. Artists then experiment with various techniques and mediums, including stencils, posters, stickers, and temporary installations alongside graffiti. As a form of free and accessible expression, it allows artists to express themselves without filters and to interact directly with the public. Many street artists use their art to denounce injustices and inequalities. Street art thus becomes a form of resistance and protest, giving a voice to the voiceless and the marginalized. 

From now on, during every urban getaway to Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, or Paris, we delight in the artistic treasures that unfold before our eyes. Over the years, this artistic movement has transformed into a true mosaic of expressions, captivating our attention with its ability to constantly push the boundaries of creativity and social engagement. Whether by infiltrating urban facades or taking over exhibition spaces, urban art has managed to secure a prominent position within the current cultural landscape. Keith Haring had just injected a dose of creativity into the subdued atmosphere of the casino and cultural center of Knokke, this popular seaside town on the Belgian coast, famous for its array of art galleries.

 In the meantime, another artist of the same genre manages to catch my eye: Kid Acne. Born in 1978, this British artist lived in Sheffield, a city that profoundly shaped his work and artistic perception. From his early years, immersed in comics, graffiti, and punk chords, he began mural painting and creating zines, independent magazines, in his adolescence. Under the pseudonym Kid Acne lies a subversive blend of sharp humor and unapologetic rebellion. Typography becomes the very soul of Kid Acne's art, merging impactful slogans and verbal poetry at the heart of his visual creations. Kid Acne has transformed urban art into a powerful, vibrant, and expressive language.

 One of the recurring motifs in Kid Acne's work is that of the "Warriors," strong and independent female characters often depicted in combat postures. These figures symbolize resistance and empowerment, reflecting the artist's vision of the strength and resilience of women. Through his works, he denounces injustices, questions social norms, and inspires new generations of artists. His ability to combine humor, aesthetics, and social message makes him an iconic figure in contemporary street art.

 In 2011, the Academy of Visual Arts of Knokke was invited to compete in a giant XXL drawing competition against other Belgian academies, organized by Komask, the Royal Society for the Promotion of Fine Plastic Arts, in Antwerp. The artistic creations will be showcased in the majestic entrance hall of the courthouse in Antwerp. To celebrate Kid Acne's multiple talents, I discovered a striking photo of the artist in one of my weekly magazines, which will become the starting point of my tribute. Here is the culmination of my artistic work spanning one square meter. Despite a series of unfortunate events, my work did not find its place in the exhibition but was warmly welcomed in the prestigious virtual showcase of Saatchi in London.

                                                                            Kid Acne