Usually, it’s the incredible architecture of buildings, both present-day and historical, that takes our breath away. But, the scene seems to be shifting, as some street artists and muralists have taken it on themselves to deck up the buildings in delightful murals that are both fun and thought-provoking.
One such amazing muralist goes by the name of Wild Drawing, popularly known as WD. This street artist, born and raised in Bali, Indonesia, has been residing in Athens, Greece for the past 10 years. After obtaining degrees in Fine Arts and Applied Arts, he chose to become a street artist in the year 2000.
Such is his passion for street art that once he started creating his unique murals, he has never looked back. In addition, he also owns a studio, where he continues to function, but it’s the street art he’s most passionate about.
What sets WD apart from other street artists is his renderings of photorealistic murals that are not just pieces of art, but address a number of current issues faced by the people. What he portrays through his murals encompass current political, economic and social issues, both local and global.
Moving from east to west has helped WD imbibe the East-West culture, which is quite evident in his art. His inspiration of rendering realistic murals in anamorphic format comes from the graphic novels, comics and the fantastic art. In addition, nature, lifestyle, social phenomena and art also inspire him. His tools for creating gigantic murals are spray paints and roller brushes.
What makes his murals so fascinating is his ability to completely connect with the building or structure he’s painting. The harmony created between the mural and the structure through his works is for all to see, as also the different elements that he incorporates in his art.
Asked what he loves about street art, WD says it provides him with a platform for freedom of expression and an avenue to directly communicate with people. According to him, his street art is not bound by social, cultural, economic or any other limitations. It also provides him with an opportunity to speak about the issue of re-appropriation of public spaces.
What’s more, WD is not really bothered about the temporary nature of his murals. According to him, if he were interested in preserving his art for posterity, he would have stuck to painting only on canvas. Thanks to this, his beautifully executed works today are showcased in all their glory not only in the historic city of Athens but also in many other cities of Europe.
With such immense talent, it’s not surprising that WD is internationally recognized through his solo and collective exhibitions, and international festivals in America, Europe and Asia. His art also figures in established street art publications, such as Editions Alternatives, Thames & Hudson and the Lonely Planet.
WD also enjoys a fan following of over 380,000 people on Facebook and many more on other social media platforms.
WD Street Art
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