Street artists vs legends Be the first to comment 18 January 2012
What happens when you pit legendary street artists against raw upcoming talent? The answer is an epic exhibition entitled ‘Off the Wall: Street Art Legends’, which opens at Pro Art Gallery on January 18. Featuring the powerful works of established artists already oozing with street cred, such as Brit icon Banksy, US graffiti king Shepard Fairey, controversial pseudo-artist Mr Brainwash and Amsterdam-based group The London Police, the exhibition aims to inspire urban-style art in the region. It will also feature upcoming French DJ turned message-maker Gwenael Salaun and an emerging local artist, Iraqi-born Saif Chilmiran. Here, we asked the two new artists to discuss the work of legends, as well as compare each other’s.
Gwenael Salaun, 40
What does this piece represent?
This piece talks about painting today, how it can be a playful game. Also like life in today’s diverse world, there are often clashes (cultural, political) but things somehow manage to stick together and work. As a whole, my works are a way to open the door to new ideas and possibilities, with the observer encouraged to come to their own conclusions.
What style do you use to create your work?
My style is to use many different stylistic combinations that appeal to me, with the aim of freeing up new creative avenues.
How has street art influenced you?
Street art is an amorphous beast, encompassing art found in or inspired by the urban environment. Like a happening major city, it creates a buzz. It energises me!
Who inspires you?
Mankind.
Saif on Gwenael’s work
What do you like about this piece?
I love the mixing of different things put on to one canvas. The cartoon character with the skull made me love it even more. It’s original and great.
What do you admire about Gwenael as an artist?
His creativity and the creation of his own style. I don’t need to ask or read his signature to tell that this is his piece, I know simply by seeing it.
Can you spot themes in this work that are similar to your own?
I believe we have two different styles and ideas, but we both love to mix stuff. [Laughs]
