Originally from Buenos Aires, Mr. Kern pursued his studies in applied arts in Barcelona and Bordeaux. His artistic influences are as diverse as the underground comics of the 1980s, surrealist painting to urban art and the work of Diego de Velázquez. Mr. Kern challenges us to view street art through a critical lens, prompting us to reassess the value we place on street artists and their work. He provocatively suggests that the Sistine Chapel itself can be regarded as one of the most refined works of street art.
Upon his arrival in Barcelona, Mr. Kern was captivated by the city’s graffiti and the unique challenges presented by this then-emerging art form. He became convinced that graffiti was the ideal medium for showcasing his art, leading to the development of his realistic-satirical images imbued with absurd symbolism. Transitioning from traditional spray cans to paint brushes, Kern fused his academic training with his love for comics, creating works often filled with references to popular culture, such as McDonald’s toys and animated characters, juxtaposed with surrealist depictions of political figures.
