Streetwalker
Jonathan Levine’s love of underground art is obvious. His Chelsea gallery has boasted, time and time again, fantastic urban art scenes highlighting some of the most unconventional artists. Beginning last February with a survey of Sao Paolo’s art scene, the gallery continues its series on international street art this time exploring the streets of Europe. By inviting Europe’s most significant street artists, the gallery aims to create a visual dialogue within the global community, through an exchange of creative ideas that transcend geographical borders and cultural differences. The exhibition features 6 artists: French stencil graffiti artist Blek le Rat, and retro inspired artist Space Invader; Italian wall painter Blu, digital animation artist BO130, and microbiology and surrealism inspired Microbo, and last but not least English artist D*face known for his subversive dysfunctional characters.
Come and check out how Paris, Milan and London’s streets contribute to urban landscapes and the worldwide freedom of expression. The exhibit runs until December 29th, so all you street lovers now know what to hit during the holiday season. More info here.
Blinded By His Light
For electro label Ed Banger, there’s no doubt, visuals are equally as important as music. The album covers are always meticulously designed, the t-shirts are to-die-for and the logos are so hot, that Uffie even tattooed hers on her arm! There’s a man behind all the creative gusto, and his name is So-Me. When Ed Banger’s Pedro Winter first saw So-Me’s artwork he knew he had to get him involved, and in less than four years So-Me aka Betrand de Langeron has created a strong visual identity that defines a whole generation. After he designed the album cover for Justice’s anthem We Are Your Friends, Pedro Winter officially promoted him as Ed Banger’s creative director, and the rest is history! From the flyers, 12” sleeve-art, CD covers, t-shirts, posters, photographs, De Langeron is definitely the brain behind all of Ed Banger visuals. His hand-drawn images, use of heavy font and loud colors, along with his humorous approach to pop culture iconic imagery reveals influences from pop-art, graffiti, skateboard culture and so much more.
This year has been a busy one for the graphic designer: he’s won another VMA Award for the now classic, “D.A.N.C.E”, his illustrations and his t-shirts have graced the pages of publications around the world, he’s continued his close collaboration with Japanese brand Revolver, started his DJ career and most notably he co-directed Kanye’s “GoodLife”. For his first solo exhibition, the 28 year old Parisian who dreamed of being a comic book illustrator as a kid, has chosen The Lazy Dog, a trendy art space in the heart of Paris. Blinded By The Light will feature an extensive collection by the young artist, and the show will be running until January 28th. For more info check out The Lazy Dog’s web page.