Place Océane, Le Havre 2012

This mural, Place Océane, was made by Speedy Graphito, probably with spray paint, maybe stencils, or some form of printing. I can imagine him working quickly and instinctively in the urban landscape, composing a pastiche of cartoon characters, logos, and graffiti. I feel the energy of the city radiating from this artwork, and it makes me think about the dialogue between different styles of art and modes of expression. Speedy Graphito probably was thinking about the commodification of culture, the pervasiveness of advertising, and the blurring of boundaries between high and low art. I am drawn to the bold lines and the layering of images, which creates a sense of depth and complexity. The artist probably uses a visual language that is both accessible and subversive. I like how the artwork engages with the history of painting while pushing the boundaries of what it can be. I feel like I am in conversation with many artists and their art!