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    Wall to Wall Street Art Festival in Melbourne, Australia

    Melbourne’s vibrant street art scene takes the next step in its creative evolution with the unveiling of the city’s first official street art precinct, set to transform a long-forgotten industrial pocket of Mordialloc into a hub of creativity and expression. Returning for the first time since the pandemic, Australia’s original street art festival, WalltoWall and Kingston Council are bringing seven of Australia’s top street artists and three acclaimed international artists together to adorn the area with a stunning array of large-scale mural works from 26-28 April. Melbourne has long been revered as an international street art capital, and this groundbreaking project breathing new life into Mordialloc’s industrial laneways, ushers in a new era of artistic innovation and cultural revival for the city. Renowned artists such as Smug, Adnate, Celeste Mountjoy (creator of Filthy Ratbag), George Rose, and French artist Zoer, among others, will lend their talents to the project, infusing the precinct with their unique styles and perspectives. In addition to the tapestry of colourful and eclectic murals, the streets of Mordialloc will come alive on Saturday 27 April with a block party presented by Wall to Wall and Mordialloc’s newest culinary precinct, Urban Ground. The party will feature DJs including Byron Bay’s April Kerry, owner of Fitzroy record store Natural Selection, Charles Eddy, Berlin DJ and artist Blo, and Melbourne artist and DJ, Adnate. Food trucks, market stalls, workshops, tastings, open studios and hourly tours and tastings of contemporary spirits courtesy of renowned local distillery Saint Felix will ensure it’s a party not to miss. The project, curated by Shaun Hossack of Melbourne street art collective Juddy Roller (Silo Art Trail, Wall to Wall, Collingwood Housing Project) in collaboration with Kingston Arts and Mordi Village Trader, will see the transformation of Lamana Road and surrounding laneways into the vibrant Mordi Village Arts and Cultural Precinct. The initiative aims to celebrate and showcase the transformative power of street art while revitalising neglected urban spaces. Hossack said of the event: “Melbourne is known as a mecca for street art but still lacks well curated areas where major artworks can be viewed one after another, like an outdoor gallery. The scale of Wall to Wall is unprecedented in Melbourne’s beachside suburbs and will help cement Mordi Village Arts and Cultural Precinct as a beacon of creativity and community engagement.” “Street art was born in the heart of cities, but with the evolution of Juddy Roller’s Silo Art Trail and Wall to Wall – which originated in Benalla and this year is a multistate offering having just taken place in Murray Bridge – we can expand the artform across Australia” he said. Kingston Mayor Jenna Davey-Burns also expressed her excitement for the project, emphasising the growing importance of street art as a form of public expression and cultural enrichment: “Street art has emerged as one the leading forms of expression without bounds, out there on the walls instead of stuck inside four walls” she said.Take a look below for more photos of the festival and stay in the loop with us for more street art news around the globe. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); More

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    “OPTICHROMIE for Jersey City” by Felipe Pantone in New Jersey

    Felipe Pantone recently unveiled his latest masterpiece, “OPTICHROMIE for Jersey City“, marking his return to the global street art scene in the US after nearly a year since his last mural in Ohio.Spanning an impressive 25 floors, this mural is Pantone’s largest to date. It showcases a mesmerizing array of geometric patterns in monochrome, gradients, and vibrant colors, reflecting the artist’s signature chromatic palette. Set against the backdrop of the iconic New York skyline, the mural creates a captivating visual contrast, drawing viewers in with its bold aesthetic.“It’s been a titanic mission during a 25-day spring stay where my team and I endured rain, cold, two earthquakes (on the lift), and a solar eclipse!”The creation of this monumental artwork involved meticulous planning and team coordination, as Pantone and his collaborators carefully mapped out intricate designs on the building facade. Despite the challenges of working at towering heights, the transformative impact of “OPTICHROMIE for Jersey City” on the urban landscape is undeniable, reshaping architectural perceptions and captivating audiences worldwide.Check out below for more photos of Felipe Pantone’s latest work. default default(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); More

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    James Reka – Floriana

    James Reka’s latest show, Floriana, opens at Backwoods Gallery, Melbourne this week. The Australian artist returns to his hometown for the first time in six years for this body of work, completed partly at his studio in Malta, and in residence at the gallery.As part of the original Everfresh Crew, Reka initially made his mark in the laneways and train lines of Melbourne’s inner-suburbs where he spent over a decade developing his surrealist style. Working across bold colour palettes that are defined by their themes in each body of work, Reka’s nods to classical cubism are enhanced with technical layers and details that disclose the history of his urban canvases as much as they tell the stories of his characters.Reka’s work is both fastidious and expressive in its outcome, a duality his content contains too, sitting somewhere between the familiar and warm, and distantly observational in depth. The paradox extends further in tensions between graphic design and graffiti, and pop-simplicity and abstract geometry.Twisting together a mix of hedonism, still life in his neo-classic fine art, Reka’s studies are an examination of the human psyche, our habits, habitat, gaze, and lifestyles.‘A junction of humanity and natural forces, “Floriana” represents the intersection of my life with the innate forces of the Mediterranean – people and nature. A metaphor of my artistic journey and stylistic evolution, inspired by ancient customs and the barren natural elements of the region.’‘Using canvas and ceramic media, I have sought to reflect the inspiration of living on the ancient Mediterranean Sea – the cradle of civilisation – itself a symbol of energy, creativity and of the search for the meaning of life, for wisdom and the love of family.’‘This exhibition documents my personal journey of the last 3 years, relocating to the Maltese Islands. “Floriana” – Latin for blossoming and prosperous – is the region of Malta where I paint, inspired by core Mediterranean values, of groups congregating outdoors in piazza celebrating life, of family focused around seafood, bowls of marinated olives, wine & the ritual of basking next to the azure blue Mediterranean Sea. I have explored sun-drenched barren landscapes – massive limestone rocks, olive trees and prickly pear. The dominant theme is the saturation of colour from the omnipresent blue sky, the terracotta of the soil and the muted greens of succulents & cacti.’‘I have deliberately held a stronger focus on the abstraction of subject-matter, inspired by the geometric blocks and limestone megaliths of the Mediterranean with horizontal and vertical lines intersecting through the pieces – while the figurative content is inspired by the Venus-like statues of Fertility Goddesses, discovered in the ancient temples of Malta. The execution of my work in acrylic and spray paint, using canvas and ceramic urns, is designed to embrace the matte textures of the ancient, weathered limestone and granite of the region and the muted palette of the soil, rather than a bright and verdant backdrop.’– James RekaOpening Night : Friday April 19th 6~9 PMExhibition runs 19.04.24 ~ 05.05.24Backwoods Gallery, 25 Easey Street, Collingwood, VIC, Australiawww.backwoods.gallery/2024-james-rekawww.instagram.com/rekaone (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); More

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    “Scar” by David de la Mano in Salamanca, Spain

    In a heartfelt homage to the enduring spirit of women, artist David de la Mano unveils his latest creation, the “Scar” mural, gracing the walls of The House of Women “Clara Campoamor” in Salamanca. Inspired by the moving verses of Louise Glück’s poem “Dress,” the mural stands as a tribute to the strength and beauty found within life’s challenges.Nestled in the heart of Salamanca, the mural serves as a visual testament to the journey of healing and self-discovery. With his distinct style marked by intricate linework and emotive symbolism, dela Mano breathes life into Glück’s evocative words, crafting a narrative that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit.My soul dried up.Like a soul thrown into the fire,but not completelynot until annihilation. Thirsty,went ahead. twitchy,not because of loneliness but because of mistrust,the result of violence.//.The spirit, invited to leave the body,to be exposed for a moment,trembling, like beforeof your surrender to the divine;The spirit was seduced, due to its loneliness,for the promise of grace.How are you going to trust againin the love of another being?//.My soul withered and shrank.The body became too much of a dress big for her.And when I regained hope,It was a completely different hope.“Dress”Louise Glück (1943-2023) USATake a look below for more photos of David de la Mano’s recent work. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); More

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    “Skin” by David de la Mano in Paris, France

    In the heart of Paris, a thought-provoking mural titled “Skin” emerges as a testament to the complexities of human existence. Created by renowned artist David Dela Mano, this mural serves as the centerpiece of an exhibition organized by the Roaming Gallery, captivating audiences with its profound exploration of borders.Located at 47 Rue Barrault in the vibrant neighborhood of L’Île-de-France, “Skin” invites viewers to contemplate the multifaceted nature of borders beyond their physical manifestations. Delving into the depths of human experience, the mural portrays the struggles and triumphs faced by individuals as they navigate a world filled with uncertainties, fears, and hopes.Through the lens of “Skin,” visitors are transported into a realm where the boundaries between the physical and the symbolic blur, illuminating the shared elements of human experiences. As viewers engage with the mural, they are prompted to reflect on the profound impact of borders on individual lives and the timeless yet historical character of these abstract concepts. In this captivating display, Dela Mano captures the essence of human resilience and the enduring spirit that transcends the confines of space and time.Spanish artist David de la Mano is known for his large dystopian murals featuring human and animal silhouettes and minimalist style. He creates distinctive artworks which are symbolic reflections on humankind and reminiscent of dark fairytales.The single anthropomorphic figures of the artist gather together and unite in an eternal and recurring movement; the individuals become the mass and vice versa, and they are driven by their dreams, ambitions, fears, vices, hopes, and internal conflicts.Take a look below at more images of “Skin” and stay tuned for more street art updates from the around the globe. More

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    Banksy in London: A Dead Tree and Vivid Hues in Finsbury Park

    In an unexpected corner of London’s Finsbury Park, a new Banksy piece silently confronts passersby with a jarring juxtaposition of life and decay. Unannounced but unmistakably Banksy, the artwork features a lifeless tree standing in stark contrast to a backdrop of vibrant green splatters—created, in a twist of irony, with a fire extinguisher. This vivid use of color and medium not only captivates visually but also provokes a deep contemplation of the themes it presents.The stark imagery of a dead tree in a park, where life is expected to flourish, is immediately compelling. Behind it, the wall serves as a canvas for an explosion of bright green paint, applied with such force and volume that it suggests a wild, almost violent attempt to resurrect the greenery that should have been. This artificial canopy of leaves, rendered through the unconventional method of a fire extinguisher, speaks to a profound message of loss, resilience, and perhaps a critique of human attempts to control or mimic nature’s beauty. The contrast between the lifeless tree and the vibrant paint creates a visual and thematic dichotomy that is ripe for interpretation.Context and Significance: Beyond the SurfacePlacing this work in the context of Banksy’s oeuvre, it aligns with his penchant for addressing societal issues with poignancy and humor. Yet, this piece stands out for its direct engagement with environmental themes, using the visual medium to highlight the contrast between what is natural and what is artificial. The choice of Finsbury Park as the location adds layers to its interpretation, possibly reflecting on the park as a space of coexistence for nature and urbanity, and the ongoing struggles to balance the two.The Impact of Banksy’s Environmental CommentaryThis latest installation invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with nature and the environment. By juxtaposing the dead tree with the artificial vibrancy of the green paint, Banksy may be urging a reevaluation of how urban societies interact with the natural world. The use of a fire extinguisher to apply the paint also suggests a sense of urgency, a call to action that cannot be ignored.Conclusion: A Mirror to Our TimesBanksy’s unannounced work in Finsbury Park serves not only as a visual spectacle but as a profound commentary on the environmental challenges facing contemporary society. As with all his pieces, the true meaning may remain enigmatic, allowing interpretations to flourish and encouraging public discourse. This artwork, silent yet screaming, presents a poignant reflection on the state of our natural world and the artificial means by which we seek to preserve it.In the wake of this powerful statement, the conversation around environmental conservation and our role within it is invigorated. Banksy’s piece stands as a testament to the power of art to inspire, challenge, and provoke thought, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of public consc (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); More

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    “Cherry Mouse” by Bordalo II in Lisboa, Portugal

    Portuguese artist Artur Bordalo, known as Bordalo II, is renowned for his transformative street art creations. His latest work, the Cherry Mouse, unveiled at the Cor de Chelas Festival  festival, is a testament to his unique approach to art. Situated in Lisbon’s Estrada de Chelas neighborhood, the installation breathes new life into the urban landscape, bringing color and creativity to the community.Born in Lisbon in 1987, Bordalo II’s artistic journey began at an early age, inspired by his grandfather’s passion for painting. Drawing from his background in painting and sculpture, Bordalo II developed his signature style of creating sculptures from discarded materials found throughout the city. The Cherry Mouse exemplifies his commitment to using art as a platform for social and environmental commentary.Using street garbage such as scrap metal and plastic items, Bordalo II meticulously constructs intricate animal sculptures that serve as poignant reminders of the environmental impact of consumerism and pollution. Through his installations, Bordalo II seeks to raise awareness about the urgent need for sustainability, inviting viewers to reflect on their relationship with the natural world. As Bordalo II continues to push boundaries with his “trash art,” his work serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of art in addressing pressing environmental issues. More

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    “LA JOTA” Urban Postcards G085 by Giulio Vesprini in Zaragoza, Spain

    Renowned street artist Giulio Vesprini has recently unveiled a captivating mural as part of the Asalto Festival in Zaragoza. Nestled in the enchanting “La Jota” neighborhood, this masterpiece finds its canvas amidst a place rich in history and architectural charm. La Jota, with its roots dating back to an ambitious 1947 housing project, was envisioned as a garden city, where modest-sized homes would be complemented by communal gardens or orchards.The visionary project aimed to provide affordable housing for local workers, with meticulous planning by architects José Beltrán and Fausto García Marco. The neighborhood’s name pays homage to the construction company, “Obras y Construcciones Damán,” situated on Avenida Castaluña.Giulio Vesprini’s contribution to this historic locale transcends traditional boundaries, adding a contemporary layer to La Jota’s narrative. Through vibrant strokes and imaginative design, the mural not only revitalizes the neighborhood’s aesthetic but also serves as a tribute to the visionary spirit of its post-war architects. As spectators traverse the streets of La Jota, they are greeted by a visual feast that seamlessly intertwines the old and the new, a testament to the enduring impact of art on community and urban landscapes. The Asalto Festival has once again become a platform for artistic expression, bringing together history, architecture, and modern creativity in the heart of Zaragoza.Photo credit: Marcos Cebrian More